Funeral services will be held July 5, 2019 at St. Andrew’s United Church in Spruce Grove, Alberta with Reverend Bill Doyle officiating. Burial will be at a date to be determined in Stirling, Alberta.
Gary was born in Lethbridge, Alberta to Grace and Louis Dogterom. He went to McNally School then graduated from Lethbridge Collegiate Institute (LCI). He earned his Bachelor of Education from the University of Lethbridge and completed his Master of Education in English Literacy later in his career.
Gary was a secondary school English teacher and worked in Okotoks, Swan Hills, Lacombe and Stony Plain. After retiring, he still enjoyed substitute teaching.
Volleyball was a large part of Gary’s life, while at U of L he played for the Pronghorns from 1975-1979. From there, he continued his love of the game by coaching and refereeing for over 30 years. His longest coaching tenure was at Lacombe Composite High School where he coached in the women’s program for almost 20 years. His teams won consistently at the provincial level and he was thrilled to be able to coach his daughter during that time as well.
He enjoyed many sports and could be found lane swimming in the mornings, golf in the summertime and playing pickup hockey in the winter.
Music was an important part of his life. In high school Gary played the trombone in the high school band as well as in their jazz band. In 1974 the band travelled to Toronto for the National Stage Band Competition placing 2nd. Later in life, he enjoyed playing trombone and piano with his children and introducing them to his favourite bands.
He was a member of the United Church, currently attending St. Andrew’s in Spruce Grove. As part of the church he participated in the choir, was board chair, and played many bridge games.
Gary was predeceased by his father Louis Dogterom (1920-2008), mother Grace (Dogterom) Wurzer (1927-2002) and stepfather Lorne Wurzer (1915-2001).
He is survived by his children: daughter Katherine (Eric) Dogterom and son Wyatt (Kristin) Dogterom; grandchildren: Barrett and Madison (Wyatt and Kristin); siblings: Linda (Kevin) Joncas, and Cheryl (Laurence) Turner along with many nieces, nephews and extended family.
The family would like to extend our sincerest thanks to the doctors and nurses at the University of Alberta Hospital, units 4A4 and 3C4.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Gary’s name may be made to KidSport (11610 60 Ave, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1) or a charity of your choice.
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