As a proud Newfoundlander, Garry was born the oldest of 8 children, allowing him to flex his leadership muscles at an early age as he led his 2 brothers and 5 sisters through childhood and adolescence. Garry left home to see the world by joining the Canadian Armed Forces in 1970.
He married his young bride in 1974 and together with Linda and daughter Rhonda, the 3 of them crisscrossed the country as his career evolved. Retiring as a Master Warrant Officer in 1996, Garry then led a team of civilians in Ottawa as a DND consultant, which lasted another 25 years. At the same time as his military advancement, Garry volunteered for the Royal Canadian Legion, and his leadership chops were evident there as he rose through the ranks to become 1st Vice President of Dominion Command in 2024. His goal of becoming President of Dominion was halted only by illness.
Garry was Patient, Kind, Approachable, Giving, Selfless, Fair, Diplomatic, Proud, Humble and could torment the spots off a cat. Garry died peacefully at home on the afternoon of May 30th, surrounded by his adoring family. He was cared for by a great team from Bayshore Health, Mariah, Laurin, and Danielle.
He will be missed most by his wife Linda of 51 years, daughter Rhonda (Doug), and his grandchildren Parker & Paislee Puckett.
He is predeceased by his Father Reg, Mother Ruth (Pennell), and survived by 2 brothers Reg (Denise) and Randy (Mary) and 5 sisters Debbie (Clarence), Cathy (Bas), Patsy, Sharon, and Renee (Pat). Garry will also be missed by nieces & nephews all over our great country. A special place always in his heart for his god-daughter Laura, Lisa, and Lindsay & their mother Linda Mclassc.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Branch 192 Royal Canadian Legion, in Carleton Place or the Canadian Cancer Society.
Graveside internment to take place on Friday, June 13th at 12:00 pm at Beechwood National Military Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Ave, in Lot location 103. Reception to follow at 3:00 pm, Carleton Place Legion, 177 George Street.
Digital Guestbook
Jim Wilson
Butler Boone
Linda, condolences on the loss of a great man. He was well respected by all of the people he came in contact with. He will be missed!
Sharon McKeown
To Linda and Family, Bill and I send sincere Condolences at this sad time. Garry was a dedicated Legionnaire, and an even more dedicated, loving husband and father. He always spoke proudly and affectionately of Linda and the Family. May memories of the many great times you shared provide comfort as you move forward in life. As we have a previous commitment on June 13th, we send regrets. Adding, I am grateful to have attended the appreciation for Garry in April. To see him remarkably smiling, singing and strumming his guitar, is a vision, I'll always remember. Rest in Peace Comrade and God Bless.
Berkley Lawrence
I was so looking forward to working with Garry at the Dominion Legion. He will be missed, my thoughts to Linda and family.
Debbie Guthro
Linda, deepest condolences to you and your family at this time of sorrow.
Bucky Buchanan
A Mentor and friend towards all our Legion Branches . To be laid to rest among Veterans is fitting for a Soldier of his caliber and dedication to our Veterans, Rest in Peace my
PRO PATRia
Mike &Judi Giovanetti
Great times when we were together as District Commander's.
RIP my friend
Marion Fryday-Cook
My deepest condolences to Linda and Garry’s family. He was a great person and I was proud to know him.
Thank you for your service.
Ron & Barb Goebel
Condolences to Linda, Rhonda, Paisley, Parker and family. Garry is going to be missed and especially our daily phone calls. Rest in peace Garry.
Daryl Alward
Sincere Condolences go out to Linda ,Family and Friends. It was truly a shock when I heard of the passing of Garry. I was at convention in Saint John NB speaking with him and mentioned how I missed seeing him at DEC meetings in Kanata. May he Rest in Peace.
Daryl Alward
Past Provincial President
NB Command
Garry encouraged me to serve beyond the branch level