In loving memory of our beloved Raymond Coote Garside

It is with deep sadness and gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the peaceful passing of Raymond Coote Garside on January 21st, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. Ray was a cherished husband, devoted father, adored grandfather, loving father-in-law, and close friend to many.  Ray brought joy and laughter to all who had the good fortune to know and love him.

Ray was born in Edmonton on December 12, 1931. He was the only child of Wilfred Needham Garside and Ethel Agnes (Coote) Garside, who had the good sense to relocate to Victoria when he was young, settling in Fairfield.

As a young man, Ray went into business with his father, who had founded Garside Displays. He felt a strong desire to work with his dad and to help him grow the business, which he did with style and success. He recounted proudly that his father had the first licence to do silk screen processing in Canada. Ray himself was the first in Canada to adopt computer-generated sign-making. He wasn’t afraid to adapt to the times. He said many times how proud he was of the family business and of its continued success.

Ray would say that the greatest gift of his life was to meet and marry his beloved Geraldine. They married in 1959 and remained devoted to each other through their long lives. There was never a better example of love and commitment, and we know how deeply he had mourned Gerry in the months since she passed. Truly, they were inseparable, and we take comfort in the thought that they are holding hands once again.

Together, they lived a beautiful life and cherished raising their son, Brad and their daughter, Shawn. He was the best example of a supportive parent, recognizing and celebrating our individuality. Ray loved his son-in-law and best fishing buddy, Colin. He was the ultimate grandpa to his grandchildren, Fraser and Victoria. He always had time to play with them. In fact, Fraser once confidently stated that his grampa had retired “to be my grampa.” This was true. He absolutely adored them.

Ray was, in many ways, a modern Renaissance man. He was a creator. He built their home, he sketched, painted, carved, sculpted, and built furniture. There was nothing he couldn’t do with his own hands. A creative force. His family is surrounded by the evidence of his abilities and of the life he so generously and joyfully built for us all. Ray was good at creating happiness, always naturally expecting the best of people and looking on the bright side. He enjoyed and appreciated art, music, travel and everything that life had to offer, and encouraged his family to do the same. He taught us to have fun, to enjoy beauty, to appreciate all kinds of experiences, to be open-minded and curious. He brightened our lives with his kindness, his ready smile and his quick wit.

We remember Ray, Dad, Grampa, with love and with the knowledge of how deeply we were loved by him. We are thankful for his example, and for his long, fortunate life. We are grateful that he enjoyed his life and his family until the very last day. He was grateful for and content with the life he had lived.

Our family would like to acknowledge, with thanks, Linda Hickman, who supported Mum and Dad in their later years and who became a friend to Dad. We would also like to thank the staff at Sunrise of Victoria for their care, and for enriching Dad’s life.

In accordance with Mum and Dad’s wishes, no formal memorial will be held. Donations in Ray’s memory may be made to the charity of your choice.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com

 

 

  • Julia and Jason

    Ray was such a passionate force to be reckoned with. His love could always be seen in full view, and his laughter and positivity was infectious. He would have been proud by this tribute and I know he will forever be smiling down on all of you.
    Love you all dearly xoxo

  • Catherine cook

    It was my great pleasure too be a nurse and get to know your mum so well, Shawn. I remember noticing the love your dad had for her.
    Sending you big hugs and support whenever you need it.❤️
    What I love about friends that have known each other for so long we are always there to support.

  • Bob and Gail Fowles

    Brad,Shawn and Family.
    It is hard to let go of those we Love.Hold on to all your Memories knowing that Ray lived a life he loved to the fullest with the Love of his Family .
    Take care,Love Bob and Gail

  • Linda

    Sincerest condolences Shawn, Brad and all the family. It’s never easy to say goodbye. I wish we had one more visit. That’s the hard part, not seeing and taking that time. Ray was a joy to visit, always happy, always kind and positive. I will remember his stories of adventures he and Gerry shared. He gave the best of himself to his family just as his family gave the best of themselves to him.

    Much love to you all.

    Linda

  • Grant and Diane Franceschini

    Thinking of you and your family, Shawn and Colin. A beautiful tribute to a clearly well-loved man and a life well-lived. Your many wonderful memories will keep your Dad close always. Sending a big hug,
    Grant and Diane Franceschini

  • Heather L Johnston

    Shawn, Colin, Fraser, and Victoria, how lucky you all are to have such a close, devoted family. Take comfort in each other and in your memories of Ray and Gerry; I know they’re right beside you every day. Sending love to you all, and deepest condolences.

  • Sherry

    Thinking of you and your family. Clearly, your dad was a very special man who loved and was loved.

    Take good care.
    S.

  • Bruce McKean

    Ray: a fine definition of a good man. Can’t say he caught many fish though…at least not with me in the boat.

  • June Aquino

    Missing Ray’s laughter everyday. What an honour to have known such a wonderful, loving man. Thank you for trusting us with his care. Love, from all of us at Sunrise of Victoria

  • Cindy Heppell

    Sending my sincere condolences to you and your family, Shawn. What a beautiful obituary; it is clear how much he was loved. Take good care
    With love,
    Cindy Heppell

Leave Condolence

Type your condolence message into the box below and click "Submit". It may take up to 24 hours for it to appear. Your email address will not be published.

*

Search Website

ESTATE PLANNING SEMINAR