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D. GARY WHYTE Obituary pic

D. GARY WHYTE

Born: Dec 12, 1934

Date of Passing: Dec 04, 2019

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D. GARY WHYTE
December 12, 1934 - December 4, 2019

Peacefully, with loved ones by his side, Gary ended his long battle with cancer at Nanaimo Hospital a few days shy of his 85th birthday.
Gary is survived by his greatest love, his wife of 40 years, Shirley, along with children, Cindy Einarson and Gregory Whyte (Rebecca); and stepchildren, Richard Saxony, Gerald Pion (Joan), Geoff Pion and Cathy Schenkeveld (Richard). Gary also leaves 16 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
Gary was predeceased by his parents, Delmar and Edna Isabella Whyte, and stepdaughter Susan Pion.
Gary always enjoyed reminiscing about his youth, attending Luxton School and St. John's Tech, growing up in the "true North End". Gary had a lifelong career in sales, primarily in the life insurance industry. Gary had a passion for sports and loved working as a TV sportscaster for the Greater Winnipeg Cablevision Company as well as Shaw TV. He also enjoyed 10 years as Santa on Shaw TV's annual broadcast. Gary always enjoyed the company of his coffee buddies at "Sals" in Winnipeg, the skating rink in Nanaimo and the Looney Bean in Mazatlan, where he and Shirley spent most of his final winters.
Gary could never pass a person without a friendly hello, or pass a dog without pulling a biscuit out of his pocket. He was kind, thoughtful, and a true gentleman, never speaking negatively of others, or dropping a swear word. One of Gary's last sentiments was his gratitude that he had met Shirley, who he cared for and loved deeply. Gary/Grandpa is greatly missed and his wisdom, charm and love will never be forgotten.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 28, 2019

Condolences & Memories (6 entries)

  • Really missing “Uncle Gary”. In a tribute to my Mom and Dad, Gary and Shirley wrote - thanks for including them in the Andree family and signed off “lifelong friend”. Gary was a lifelong friend to my Dad & Mom and always a part of my family. I cannot recall a time when he wasn’t part of my life. When I was a boy at Sandy Hook he was there, Field Days, swimming at 5th Avenue and throwing the football around in the water. He was there for all the great times - birthday parties (for young and old), barbeques, weddings and for the not so great times – hospital or care home visits, funerals, Uncle Gary was there and almost always Shirley by his side. His hearty laugh and ease at telling stories or starting a conversation made him a natural Santa Claus. When my Children were visited by Santa they were mesmerised by his personality (not knowing that wasn’t all Santa, that was a lot of Gary) Later, when Shirley and Gary were in Nanaimo, occasionally we would talk on the phone. Gary always made it feel like only a short time had passed and he would remember people and anniversaries and he always asked about how others were doing. His deep voice was a joy to hear, in person or over the phone. If the topic of the phone call wasn’t good news, his positive attitude and advice was always a comfort. I miss you Uncle Gary, thank you for being a part of my life. - Posted by: Brian Andree (God Son) on: Mar 17, 2020

  • Aunty Shirley, so sorry to hear of Garry’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, here in Wpg. - Posted by: Lorraine Savoie (Relative) on: Dec 31, 2019

  • Gary and I were both members of the Metro Business Club of Winnipeg for many years and served on their executive together and was always the perfect gentleman in and outside the club. I always remember Gary's passion for brushing his teeth after every meal. Rest in peace my friend. Trevor Hayden - Posted by: Trevor Hayden (Friend) on: Dec 28, 2019

  • Hey Auntie So sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family at this most difficult time. - Posted by: Marcel Savoie (Relative of Shirley) on: Dec 28, 2019

  • I remember “Uncle” Gary when they lived on Raquette Street in St. James, I used to hang out with Greg, my sister Terri hanging out with Cindy. It’s been more than 45 years since I’ve seen them. Dad really liked him. - Posted by: Daniel Montagnon (Friend of family) on: Dec 28, 2019

  • Not only a great guy but a pretty damn good hockey coach. Anyone who played under his leadership would agree. I have never or will I ever forget his leadership. - Posted by: Larry Holton (Friend) on: Dec 28, 2019

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