It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear father, grandfather and friend Gary. He died peacefully, surrounded by family at the Royal Jubilee Hospital, following a long struggle with lung disease.
He was predeceased by his loving wife, Olga, and his sister, Marian Porteous.
Dad (Pop Pop ) will be lovingly remembered by his children, Patti and Dave; son-in-law, Pat Meadows and his beloved grandchildren, Angela and Thomas. He also leaves to mourn many relatives and dear friends.
Gary was born in The Pas, Manitoba and grew up in Penticton, B.C. After high school, he joined the Canadian Army Reserve and the active force in 1950. He was a proud member of the Korean Veterans Association – Victoria Unit #27. He served with the Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadian) B Squadron, 3rd Troop. He was honourably released in 1953 and returned to Penticton where he met Olga, who was a nurse at the hospital. They moved to Victoria and were married in 1957.
Gary worked for BC Telephone Co. for 31 years, retired and then went to work at the BC Legislature for the Sergeant at Arms for 9 years, retiring a second time. He really enjoyed going to work and the interaction with all his co-workers. He also was a long time member of the Canadian Scottish Regimental Association and played the bagpipes and bass drum in the pipe band.
Gary and Olga experienced many years of travel with friends and in later years, Gary enjoyed his fitness at Gordon Head Rec and early morning coffee with the boys at McDonald’s. He lived a full life and was most happy with family and friends close by. He was a strong individual in a quiet way; committed to tradition and routine, but open for new adventures. He will be missed by all that knew him.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 6th 2016, his 85th birthday, at 2:00 pm at McCall’s Downtown, Johnson and Vancouver Streets, with a reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the BC Lung Association or the charity of your choice.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall’s Funeral Home
www.mccallbros.com
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Nancy Robertson
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Dayle Howell Patti, Pat, Dave and families,
Your dad was always so kind to me. Looking back I was seventeen and knew nothing about my job. He was so patient showing me the ropes of the order desk and repair. Good man. I know my dad was always very fond of him too. I know you and the kids will miss him terribly. I am going to Vancouver on Friday otherwise I wouldn’t miss his celebration of life. He deserves the love and respect that will be given to him. I’m sure it will be a packed celebration for a great man and family.
Thinking of you all,
Dayle Howell (Ogden)
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Dave Osland I have many, many fine memories of Gary when he served with the Pipes and Drums of The Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s). He carried himself so very well and was always so very well turned out—truly an example for all other members of the Regiment. Gary was a soldier and a gentleman of the first order and I consider myself so very fortunate to have served with him.
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Bob Black As a young soldier I remember Gary as the bass drummer in the Canadian Scottish Regiment Pipes and Drums and he always impressed me with his military bearing and immaculate uniform. Later in life we enjoyed sharing stories of our other Regiment, Lord Strathcona’s Horse, and his experiences in Korea. Gary was a true gentleman and I always enjoyed his company. Stand down, old soldier. Your duty is done.
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Bob and Pat Russell We shared a life time of memories with Gary. So many happy, funny get togethers with friends. Bob fondly remembers his service with Gary in the Canadian Scottish Regiment, their trips together to the battlefields of Northwest Europe and the fact that he was an usher at his (Bob’s) first wedding. Gary was a wonderful gentleman with a wicked sense of humour. We will always have Paris to remember.
Bob and Pat Russell
Patti, Dave and Family. I can’t tell you how honoured I feel to have had the opportunity to be a part of Gary’s life and more so for him to have been a part of mine.
So many fond memories of a great man who was devoted to family, friends and his beliefs. Steeped in tradition, but always open and excited to experience new things. A man with real integrity.
He taught me a lot, and I will miss my visits and the many laughs along the way with both he and Olga; but none of those times will be forgotten.
Sending my thoughts, love and hugs to the entire family.