GARRY ROBERT GAWLEY

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GARRY ROBERT GAWLEY Garry Robert Gawley, who resided in St. Francois Xavier, suddenly, yet peacefully passed away at home on Tuesday, February 14, 2017 at the age of 66. Left to mourn his passing are his daughter Tracy (Darcy), son Cory, and grandchildren, Jessika and Mason. Garry was predeceased by his mother Josephine (Oleksuk) and father Robert Gawley. He was born and raised in Winnipeg Manitoba. He is survived by his sister Alice Hogue, brother Brian (Marlene) Gawley, along with nephews Trevor and Colin, and nieces Jaime and Hailey. As a young man, Garry had jet black hair and dark features which attracted the ladies. He spent some of his early years working on a farm, owning a garage and driving with Grey Goose Bus Lines. As time marched on that jet black hair turned to grey and was accompanied by a beard that never seemed to stop growing, earning him nicknames like Pops, Gramps and Larry bestowed upon him by those who knew him best. His biggest sources of pride were his children Tracy and Cory, who were also his biggest source of regret. Not a day went by he didn't think of them and wonder how rich his life could've been with them actively in it. He loved to watch old game shows like The Price is Right and listen to old-school country music such as George Jones and Conway Twitty. Hello Darlin' was not only a song that had special meaning to him but it also became his signature line when entering a room. He Stopped Loving her Today, The Rose and Hello Darlin' will always remind us of him. He held a special place in his heart for wolves and dogs, specifically his furry friend Brandon who is missing Garry's presence and companionship. Garry loved a good game of cribbage, and from a young age he loved cars, camping and being outdoors. Garry made friends that became family, and loved him for the person he only knew how to be. Rodger Prefontaine and Claudette Dufour hold many memories, thank you for sharing the laughs and tears with us, and taking care of him until the end. Lionel and Ena Clement held a close bond to him. Lionel passed in 2015 and a piece of Garry went with him. They were considered an old married couple who would work on cars, do yard work and enjoyed playing a game of cards or dice. Cremation will be taking place with a service at a later date. Garry was a simple man who enjoyed being at home, he will be honoured as such with a celebratory house party and bonfire after the service as he would've wanted. Lastly, and more importantly, Dad; the cycle has been broken. We're all free from the thing that tied you down and held you back! Alice, Brian, me (your daughter), Cory and all our families. My wall came crumbling down on Tuesday when you passed. You're finally at peace and so are we. Although many years have passed...our special song has always been, and will forever be, Daddy's Girl by Red Sovine. - Love Tracy

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 18, 2017