July 27, 1935 - July 17, 2022
In loving memory ~
It is the with sad hearts, that we say goodbye to Gary, our husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle and friend, passing at home on July 17, 2022 , just 10 days short of his 87th Birthday.
He will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed by his wife Eileen; children Nina (Gerry); Jonathan, Gary, Shannon: Carolyn; Steven, Lisa, George, Dallas: Julie (Chuck): Alanna (Paul); Justin, Myles: Erica; Tye, Nevaeh; seven great -grandchildren and nieces and nephews.
Gary was pre-deceased by his mother Nina (Baker), both fathers John Carlton (killed in action 1944) and Le Barron (Barry) Anderson , brother Dan .
Gary enjoyed a long and rewarding career as a helicopter pilot in the Canadian Armed Forces until 1982. He accrued 25000 flying hours, during his 53 years as a pilot; was lead pilot for the "Dragonfly" formation helicopter team; received the Star of Courage for a rescue in Mt. Whatcom, in WA State USA; 442 Squadron was awarded the Chief of Defense Staff Unit Commendation for outstanding devotion to duty for the heroic service in the rescue of passengers from the MS Prinsendam.
Gary then flew 12 years for the Alberta government, during which he re-enlisted into the Reserves twice to serve in UN peace-keeping missions in the Sanai, Egypt and RWAH Tegucigalpa, Honduras; then later for private industry until retirement at age 73.
Gary was a man of all seasons, a hunter, fisherman, card player, star gazer, scenic photographer, runner, curlier, golfer, baseball, and hockey player (including the Old Timers League). He enjoyed a full life of traveling, going yearly to the Penticton Jazz Festival; spending time with family and his many friends with whom he greatly enjoyed sharing stories of his life experiences and adventures. He was a proud veteran and member of the following: Courtenay Legion, Lions Club, Evergreen Seniors; the 888 (Komox) RCAFA Wing. Gary served his community, attended events, and told jokes with his classic good humor.
In his company you would learn he was a positive person who cared for and respected all cultures, loved music, especially East Coast and country music, old movies, his Tilley hat, politics, Blue Jays baseball , his Montreal hockey jersey and of course his signature glass of red wine in hand.
Gary lived a full life, was one of a kind and he did it his way.
A very special Thank you to Dr Swanson for his care during Gary's illness.
We invite you to attend the Celebration of Life in Gary's honor that will take place 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm September 18, 2022 at Native Sons Hall, 360 Cliffe Ave., Courtenay, B.C. followed by reception at the Canadian Legion Branch #17, 367 Cliffe Ave., Courtenay , BC. V9N2J1
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:
The Poppy Fund, Legion Branch #17, Courtenay, BC, address above.
Funeral will be live streamed...link to follow
Condolences may be offered at www.telfordtoneffboyd.ca.
Telford, Toneff & Boyd Burial & Cremation Centres
Service Details
1:00 PM