Much loved son of Gail and John, very proud father of Richard and Stephanie, fond and very close “brother” of James Wu (Taiwan) with whom he shared many school years, “little brother” to Nicole Seminiuk (New Zealand) and a friend to so many. Tony passed away in his sleep on November 27th, 2017 in Vancouver where he had been working temporarily for his Victoria employer. Never expecting to write one’s son’s obituary, finding the right words is not easy and those who knew Tony well, will remember him as kind, very generous, always available to help and the first to volunteer, especially at a time in his life when he faced many challenges, both personal and health-related. He covered the stress in his later life behind his very friendly and outgoing personality. But ultimately his body rebelled and Late-onset Type 1 Diabetes took control of his daily life, requiring multiple injections of insulin. He had to quickly overcome his dislike of needles!
Tony graduated from GlenLyon Norfolk School (GNS) where his teachers and Mr. Brooks will not remember him for his interest in academics as he was having far more fun with extra-curricular activities. Tony’s life-long passion for all things military and police-related began in his teen years. He joined the Canadian Scottish Regiment Militia; never a keen dancer, Tony preferred to work on security at GNS school dances and later at University when he attended UNBC. After college, Tony moved to Smithers where he and his wife operated a small Inn and Tony was delighted to be voted” Businessman of the Year”. However, the RCMP “called” and Tony volunteered as an Auxiliary Constable in Smithers. He was later selected for professional police training at the RCMP College in Regina. Tony was close to graduation when personal and family issues intervened and he returned to Victoria. He later began a new career in the construction industry, with old friend Rod Parker, while successfully completing his academic requirements along the way.
Tony loved his years at GNS and one of his teachers wrote that Tony dropped in at school recently. “He was his usual full of life Tony. I marvelled at his enthusiasm and passion for living. Even though Tony was not conventional, he was a bright shining light loved by so many that he touched with his positive actions,” He gave so much Good”. It could not have been better said.
Tony is survived by his children, Richard and Stephanie, their mother, Yvonne, his parents Gail and John, in-law Blum family, extended family and many friends in Canada, Australia, Taiwan, N.Z., USA, Austria, Japan and the UK.
The family wishes to welcome any of Tony’s friends who would like to join them in saying goodbye to Tony and afterwards a Reception on Friday, December 15, 2017, at 2.30 pm in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC and ask that you contact Gail and John at ggabel@shaw.ca if you are able to attend.
Flowers gratefully declined. A donation to GlenLyon Norfolk School in Tony’s name would be greatly appreciated.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
60 Responses
There is probably nothing so heart breaking as loosing a child.
My heartfelt condolences at this very sad time.
Karin Hertel
Dear Gail & Family,
I’m so sorry to hear about Tony’s passing, far, far too soon. I won’t be able to attend his memorial but know that our family is thinking of you during this heartbreaking time.
Sincerely,
Alex
Gail,
On behalf of your fellow Board members of UVIC Properties, our condolences for the loss of your son.
Yours truly,
Tony Gage
Our deepest condolences goes to John, Gail, and Tony’s family.
Wayne, Fay, & Caitlin Gray
To my dear friend Gail, John, Stephanie and Richard, The Nielsen family send their deepest sympathies to you on your indescribable loss of your Tony. He was a lovely young man and will be sadly missed. We will be thinking of you frequently over the coming months.
With heartfelt condolences, Toni Lars and Kate.
Dear John and Gail,
Though words can’t really express what one feels at a time like this, please accept my heartfelt condolences over Tony’s passing. He touched many lives. There is much love and support for you both in our community.
With warm regards,
Bob
Dear Gail and John, Your Commissionaires’ family sends our heartfelt condolences for the loss of your son Tony. Our thoughts and prayers are with you both and you family during this difficult time. Sincerely, Gary Paulson, Commissionaires Victoria the Islands and Yukon
We are so sorry to hear of Tony’s sudden passing. We remember Tony shovelling
snow last winter and his love of cars, especially Mustangs.
So sad on the untimely passing of your dear son. It is indeed very difficult to cope with the loss of a child. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Gail and your family at this very sad time. Our condolences to you and your family.
Bob and Devi Jawl
Gail and John:
It is very difficult for me to know and understand the loss.
Our Family sends deepest sympathy and condolences.
This last Summer Tony and I were able to spend quite some time together and I got to know him again!!
Firstly, years ago, with our children, Erik and Joanna, running around the back of Anderraa on Alpha Street, while we were working on projects and equipment. They remember those times when I spoke of Tony and it reminded me of his laughter and energy. The years went by, however, it seemed we were in touch as you and I always discussed the Families, activities and experiences. I didn’t ever consider it ending.
Please know we will remember him and the good person he was.