GARY JAMES LEANDER SAUNDERS

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GARY JAMES LEANDER SAUNDERS With a peaceful dignity surrounded by his loving family, Gary passed away on Sunday, October 14, 2001 at the age of 45. Gary was born and raised in Winnipeg. He had many jobs in the construction industry during which time he made many lifelong friends. During these years he met and married the strength of his life, his devoted wife, Carol. Together they had two sons, Kelly and Casey. Gary was a gentle, loving husband and the type of father one could only wish they had. Gary felt his greatest accomplishments in his life were a happy marriage to Carol and his complete devotion to his young sons. Garys life was filled with laughter, love and true happiness. He had a warm smile and a contagious laugh. Although ill health prevented him from participating in sports, he was a true armchair athlete enjoying all forms of sports. He could be seen around the neighbourhood throwing the football or playing ball hockey with his two sons and enjoying every single second with them to the fullest. His only regret was that he was unable to "get that golf game in" with his two sons before his health declined again. Gary possessed a happy attitude that could make anyone feel good just by being in the same room as him. He shared a sense of humour with his wife Carol that had many heads shaking but would be invaluable during Garys struggle with his health. Gary was a true inspiration to all who met him, having had two heart transplants in the last eight years and at the time of his death awaiting a third. Garys attitude towards his illness was one of acceptance and gratitude towards the two donor families, as without his first transplant he would not have seen his young son Casey. He never asked why me, but rather why not me when facing struggles during his illness. Gary will be sadly missed by his loving wife Carol and two young sons, Kelly and Casey. Also missing Gary are his mother-in-law Nellie Fushtey; brothers-in-law, Dennis, Don (Debbie), Ken (Audrey) his two nieces, Tamara (Bryce) and Lindsay, devoted Auntie Grayce (Don) and their children; as well as many other friends and relatives. He was predeceased by his father Cecil and father-in-law William. During the difficult times in his illness, Gary found comfort in being able to compose his own obitbulkloaduary. The family wishes to thank the nursing staff at HSC SICU for their tender care and a special thank you to nurse Ralph. Also thank you to Rev. Fulford for his many comforting visits and prayers. A celebration of Garys life will be held at 43 Malone St. on Thursday, October 18 between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. As per Garys wishes, a private family interment service has been planned. Flowers are gratefully declined, but if friends so desire, a trust fund has been set up for Garys sons at the Royal Bank, 130 - 1395 Ellice Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3G 0G3. Well miss you very much and thank you For all the wonderful memories; they Will last our lifetimes. Youre our hero. We love you dearly. Carol, Kelly and Casey Arrangements entrusted to: CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME CEMETERY AND CREMATORIUM 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 17, 2001