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
Amber Peters
Brenda Deacon
You will be sadly missed and fondly remembered. Rest easy my friend.
Bonnie dannenberg
My sincere condolences to all of the family. You have lots of memories and that will help during the sad times. Bonnie
Diane Condon
A good leafer and mentor. He will be missed. Safe landings my friend.
Mike and Gail Farmer
Our sympathies to Linda, Family and all his Legion friends.
Erl Kish
Veteran, Legionaire and Friend RIP Garry duty done
William (Bill) Zeitz-Sampson
Gary was an amazing man and true leader. I had the pleasure of meeting him at several District E Conventions. I had many laughs and talks with him. I will truely miss Gary. Rest In Peace Comrade. My Deepest Condolences to Gary's wife and family.
From Bill Zeitz-Sampson of Branch 547 Innisfil ( Formerly of Branch 171 Alliston)
Joyce Geddes
To Linda Rhonda and the Pond family
My deepest condolence to you all on the passing of Garry in the years I was Zone D5 Commander knowing Garry was a privilege to have worked with a Veteran, that had a great deal of knowledge and human insight that he brought into the Legion
We will miss you greatly Garry
Lorna Lambert
Linda, Rhonda and family. So very sorry to hear about Garry’s passing. He was a true family man and will be missed.
Randy Fraize
Garry was a good friend over the years, especially in our early days. He was one third of a trio along with Gary McIsaac and myself. We made many memories together over the years. Garry excelled over the years in everything he tackled. My heart goes out to Linda and Rhonda. Garry will be sorely missed by many, many people. Rest easy my friend.
Linda and family. I wish I had known Garry longer but from the length of time I knew him he was a wonderful person. I will remember his smiles and his great personality. My condolences.