Gary is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Shirley, and their five children: Garth (Patricia) and his children Samantha (Finn) and her daughter Runa, and Austin; Mark; Sabrina and her children Kamara, Marissa (Brendon) and their daughter Mollie, and Shelton and his son Jack; Gary Jr (Tracy) and his sons Evan, Daniel (Kaitlyn) and his daughter Amelia, Zachery and Colby; and Corrinne (Jon); as well as a brother Ken (Renate) and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Gary was predeceased by his beloved parents Atwell and Mollie (Munt) and his siblings Donna (Lawrence), Jeanette (Don) and Leonard (Eleanor).
Gary was born July 29, 1931, in Cabri, Saskatchewan. Legend has it, as Dad loved to tell us, he was a “blue baby” that was revived quickly with a drop of whiskey. After high school, Gary worked on the oil rigs until he took over his father-in-law’s hardware store in Corning, Saskatchewan. A few years later Gary and Shirley moved to Wolseley where they raised their family and owned a hardware store and other various ventures for more than 40 years, always giving back generously to the community. Gary was known for being able to fix anything and was especially kind in helping seniors in the community, even after retirement. Gary was also highly sought-after for his gardening advice because for many years he had the best lawn and vegetable garden in town. Gary enjoyed sharing his knowledge and plentiful crop with his lucky neighbours, friends and family.
Gary often spoke lovingly of his mother who was a fabulous cook and the nicest person anyone has ever met. Dad will equally be remembered fondly for his cooking (he made the best Yorkshire pudding), boundless energy, fun-loving spirit, boisterous story telling, joyous laughter and legendary hugs. Dad loved kids and kids loved him back because he always took the time to interact and goof around. Dad’s biggest joy in life was the family he created with Shirley and that was never clearer than when he became a grandfather and great grandfather. The love and fun he bestowed upon his grandchildren has left an indelible mark upon their hearts forever.
Special thank you to the staff at Lakeside Home for care and kindness that Gary received in the last year of his life.
Donations may be made in Gary’s honour to charities that support nature/wildlife conservation or Alzheimer’s Disease.
Interment to be held at a later date in the Wolseley Cemetery.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.17