February 9, 1956 - June 1, 2020
Gary was born in Armstrong to loving parents Rawleigh and Lydia. Despite being born with Down Syndrome, in an age when little was known about it, and life expectancy was short, he lived a full, active and productive life. Along the way, he touched the lives of many.
He was an avid sports fan, devoted to his beloved BC Lions, LA Kings and New England Patriots. He loved bowling, swimming, going to the gym, music, movies, travelling and playing crib. He enjoyed a good party, especially if dancing was involved.
Gary was the original inspiration for the Kindale organization. Through the efforts of his parents and the local Kinsmen club, a small school was built to meet the needs of children with special needs in the 1960's. Over the years Kindale has grown and evolved into the wonderful organization that we know today.
Gary is survived by his brother Roy (Donna), nieces Shanna (Mike) Doran and Traci (Lucas) Mata, nephew Andrew (Debby) and brand new great nephew Daxton, along with many cousins and a host of friends.
Thank you to Kindale, caregivers Jim and Laurie Vizeau-Smith, Donna and Laurie Beenen for all their love, care and support over the years. Also, most recently, thank you to the amazing staff at Vernon Jubilee Hospital for their compassion and care.
They say it takes a village to raise a child, and nowhere has that ever been more true than in Armstrong. But in Gary's case, along the way, that village has also learned a great deal from the child.
Due to current Covid-19 restrictions, a celebration of Gary's life will be held at a later date, when conditions allow. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Kindale, or a charity of your choice.
Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to the family at www.MyAlternatives.ca
Arrangements entrusted to Alternatives Funeral & Cremation Services, Armstrong 250-546-7237 & Vernon 250-558-0866.
Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services