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
Juanita Kemp
Steve Wrathall
Gary, always had a smile on his face and always something to say about anything, remembering back in our military days, we had such a great time causing trouble. You haven’t change over the years, god bless you. For that. My condolences to Linda and your family.
Ron and Sharon Crown.
Sincere condolences to Linda and family.
Working these past years with Garry has been a true pleasure, he will be sadly missed.
We have no words, love speaks in silence.
Too young to die, too sick to stay.
Brad Cooke
Linda & Rhonda.....I was saddened to hear of Garry's passing. Thinking of you both during this difficult time.
Fred & Lia Olmsted + Family
We are so sorry for your loss. What a beautiful tribute - he accomplished a lot to be proud of in his life. Holding Parker & Paislee especially in our hearts. All our Love, The Olmsteds xo
Crystal Cook
My deepest condolences to Linda and family. Garry was a great man who was always some patient and kind to me. Garry never hesitated to hear me out, answer my questions and always made me feel valued and heard. He will be missed
Nancy and Larry Kincade
Love you always.
Tara Gesner
Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Ladies' Auxiliary of Ontario Command
Our sincere condolences to Linda, Rhonda and family. Garry was a true Comrade, leader and asset within our organization, but overall a friend to all he met. We will dearly miss Garry but know he will now be able to rest peacefully and painless. To Linda, you have lost the LOVE you have cherished for so many years, may you know that we are here to support you, if you are needing us.
Kim Adams
My deepest condolences to Linda, Rhonda and family. May you treasure the memories you have of your many years together. Garry was a person who never hesitated to help whenever he could. For the short time I've had the pleasure of knowing Garry, I will always remember him as "The guy with the salmon shirt". Linda, may you find peace in the coming , days, it is a "One Day At a Time" journey, for sure, and may you all be kept safe.
Great man, he will be missed by many.