Gary, with the loving support of his wife Brenda, passed away on July 14, 2022 after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's.
Born in 1952, originally from Port McNicoll, Gary later settled and raised his family in Brantford. Gary was motivated through his love for his high school sweetheart and wife of 50 years Brenda, their sons Matthew and Tyler, and his extended family, friends, and patients. Gary was a man of deep Christian Catholic Faith, great charm, empathy, and respect for others. He was active in the community throughout his life, through his church, through coaching hockey, and involvement with associations such as the Lions Club.
Gary was predeceased by his parents Henry and Blossom Valcheff, and Brenda's parents Ray and Marjorie Contois. His sense of humour will be missed by his siblings Patricia (Joe), Gail (Lawrence), Gerald (Cheri), Henry (Susan), Colleen (Dave), and his brother in laws Ray (Jane), and Paul (Lori). Gary will be deeply missed by his many nieces, nephews, and friends. Gary had a huge capacity for enjoying life, having spent countless hours with friends and family skiing, playing hockey, and many rounds of golf at Brantford Golf and Country Club.
If there was an offer to go to the Masters, Canadian/US Open, Tour De France, or to play in hockey tournaments from North Bay to Tampa Bay, a round of golf at the old course St. Andrews or Pebble Beach, or a skiiing trip to BC, Gary's answer was always "YES" before you could finish the question. Gary and Brenda made many trips throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. He was fascinated by other cultures and enjoyed "going local" during travels. We will all share many happy memories he gave us through his passion for life and people, intellectual curiosity, sense of humour, and genuine faith.
A very special thank you to the staff at John Noble Nursing Home in Brantford who helped to care for Gary over the past 7 years, and to the Brantford Alzheimer's Society. Gary always felt blessed to have such a wonderful life.
Visitation will be held at the "THORPE BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME", 96 West Street, on Friday, July 22nd, 2022 from 2-4pm, and 7-9pm. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Pius Catholic Church, 9 Waverly Street, on Saturday, July 23rd at 11am. A reception will follow at Thorpe Brothers Funeral Home. Interment will be held at St. Margaret's Cemetery in Midland, Ontario on Monday, July 25th. Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.thorpebrothersfh.com
