Tri-City Cremation Services

Francois “Frank” Jean Charles Demers

1935 - 2024

Passed away peacefully on Wednesday July 17, 2024, at Lanark Village Seniors Living in his 89th year.

He is predeceased by his wife, Sandra Demers of 36 years, his parents Aurore Proulx and Alphyre Demers and his son Francois 2 Demers of Hawkesbury.

Frank is one of 13 children, survived by his sister Suzanne (Maurice) Sauvé and his brother Serge (Odette Lalonde) Demers and preceded in death, by his other siblings and spouses.

Frank leaves behind his children, Jean (Sylvie) Demers, James (Sue) Demers and Diane (Mark) Krastel and his Stepchildren, Christine (George) Harkness, Penny (Martin) Sutcliffe, Timothy Martin, Mark Martin, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Frank was a long time employee at J.M. Schneider Inc. working in meat processing. He enjoyed classical music, crossword puzzles and had a thirst for knowledge.

The family would like to thank the Lanark team and Dr. Jagas for the kindness and care shown to Frank. He was grateful for the friendships he made, most notable Agnes, her daughters Maurine & Donna and Sharon.

Cremation has taken place; there will be no service, in accordance with his wishes.

Memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer Society of Ontario (https://alzheimer.ca/on/en).

Please visit Frank's online obituary notice to leave messages and condolences for his family: https://www.tricitycremations.com/obituaries-condolences/francois-frank-jean-charles

William Irving Little

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of William Irving Little on the afternoon of July 16, 2024, at Lisaard House Hospice in Cambridge, Ontario, at the age of 89.

William “Bill” Little was a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother. He is survived by his children from his marriage to Marion Reid: John Little (Brenda), Kevin Little, and Debbie Ralph. From his marriage to Valerie Little, he is survived by Andrea Little (Nick), Roy Little, and Courtney Little (Adam). Bill was predeceased by his sons Bob Little (2016) and Paul Little (1979).

He was a cherished grandfather to Bryan Little (Brittany), Shawn Little (Jessica), Kelly Waytowich, and Christopher Ralph (Sandy). His legacy continues through his proud great-grandchildren: Parker, Atlas, Jeremy, Cole, Cameron, Chloe, Scott, Neely (Mackenzie), Krista, and Bella, and his great-great-granddaughter, Amaya Bee.

Bill was a dear brother to Maxwell Bruce Little (Sandra). He was predeceased by his parents, Bruce Alexander and Dorothy Edith (Forsythe) Little, and his brothers, James Alexander Little (2015), Gray Robert Little (2022), and Bruce Alden Little, who died in infancy.

Born on September 22, 1934, Bill lived a life brimming with love, laughter, and dedication.

Bill’s childhood on the family farm on Old Bay Road in St. Stephen, New Brunswick, with his three brothers, was filled with love and adventure. The time spent with his mother and brothers not only instilled in him a strong work ethic and exceptional problem-solving skills but also gifted him a treasure trove of cherished memories and heartwarming stories. From exploring “Billy Little Falls” to driving on the ocean floor in the Bay of Fundy, Bill’s youth was rich with adventures that he eagerly shared with anyone who would listen.

Although Bill began his career as an electrician, his incredible ability to connect with people soon led him to a successful career in sales. Along the way, he built many treasured professional and personal friendships.

In his well-earned retirement, Bill found joy in walking by the Grand River, capturing the beauty of nature through photography, taking road trips to Port Maitland, and socializing with his friends at the Cambridge Centre.

Even as his health declined, Bill’s trademark humour remained ever-present. He frequently teased and joked with the nurses at Cambridge Memorial Hospital, bringing smiles and laughter to those around him.

Bill will be forever cherished for his sense of humour, passion, resourcefulness, curiosity, and unwavering willingness to help others.

As per his wishes, cremation has taken place, and a celebration of William’s life will be held on September 22, which would have been his 90th birthday, at a location to be determined.

A heartfelt thank you to the staff at Lisaard House Hospice for their care and compassion. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Lisaard House Hospice (https://lisaardandinnisfree.com/).

Please visit Bill's online obituary notice to leave messages and condolences for his family: https://www.tricitycremations.com/obituaries-condolences/william-irving-little

Blanche Nora Skuce

1944-2024

Passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family at Innisfree Hospice on Saturday July 13th 2024 at the age of 80 years.

Blanche was born and raised in New Brunswick and grew up in Lake Utopia with her parents and her sister Jean. She moved to Renfrew, Ontario in the early 60's with her sister and brother-in-law where she met her future husband and subsequently moved to Kitchener where they raised their three daughters.

She had a humble but no-nonsense approach to life and was always a very resourceful person who could always make something out of nothing. She was an expert seamstress as well as a fabulous cook and handyman and was a wonderful role model to her whole family.

One of her joys was travelling with the Kitchener Dutch Boy Drum and Bugle Corps during the 80's where she served as part of the cooking staff as well as uniform seamstress.

She was known by all that knew her to be a genuine person with a gentle soul who always had a kind word for everyone she met. She also had a quiet elegance about her and was a loving wife, mother and devoted grandmother.

Beloved husband of Wayne Skuce, they were together for over 60 years. Loving mother of Tina ( Johnny Hunt), Trudy Smith ( Gary) , Kelly Ingerham ( Bob) and step -mother of Tom, Holly and Douglas. Cherished grandmother of Curtis, Jordan, Ryan and Tyler. Dear sister of Jean Northrup (the late Ray). Predeceased by her parents ; James and Grace Cooke ( nee James).

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Innisfree Hospice (https://lisaardandinnisfree.com/) would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.

Please visit Blanche's online obituary notice to leave messages and condolences for her family: https://www.tricitycremations.com/obituaries-condolences/blanche-nora-skuce

Henry David Schiller

1937 – 2024

David passed away peacefully on Friday July 12, 2023 at Freeport Hospital at the age of 86 years.

Loving and supportive wife of 66 years, Marilyn (Grice). Dedicated father of Mark ( Anne) and Trevor ( Elaine). Cherished Grandpa Dave to Tyler ( Melissa), Travis ( Kali), Kelsey ( Jacques), Ryan, Dylan and Carson. Proud Great Grandpa Dave to Reese, Sadie, Austin and Maeva , they always brought him a smile. He is survived by his siblings; Eric ( Fran), Mary Lavoie and Martha Martin. He was predeceased by his parents; Eric and Impi Schiller and by his step-mother Margaret.

David had an enthusiasm for life and learning. Graduating from the U of T with his Engineering Degree in 1960. He obtained his Law Degree from Osgood Hall Law School in 1974 and a Bachelor of Arts Degree (Dean’s Honor List) at the University of Waterloo in 2012. He had a passion for politics, becoming Mayor of the Town of Richmond Hill for 3 terms.

Following his political career he and Marilyn moved to Mapleton (formerly Maryborough) living in a renovated 1875 school house for four years before moving to Waterloo where he worked for the Ontario Human Rights Commission until his retirement. He loved to play golf at Rockway Golf Course and travel with his wife Marilyn. The golf clubs were always in the trunk.

As per his wishes, cremation has taken place, with no visitation or memorial service.

The Schiller family wish to express their gratitude and appreciation to the staff at Grand River Hospital, especially 5 North Stroke and the Palliative Care team at the Freeport site for their kindness and care. To our Belmont neighbors, thank you. Your thoughtfulness and support will not be forgotten.

If desired, donations may be made to a charity of choice as expressions of sympathy.

Please visit David's online obituary notice to leave messages and condolences for his family: https://www.tricitycremations.com/obituaries-condolences/henry-david-schiller

Frances Elizabeth Ashenhurst (neé BURNS)

Passed away peacefully on July 14, 2024 at Saint Luke's Place in Cambridge, Ontario at the age of 82 years. Beloved wife of Paul Ashenhurst for nearly 52 years. Cherished mother of Fiona Ellison (Grant), Lisa Ashenhurst, and Jason Ashenhurst. Proud Nana of Hannah and Georgia. Dear sister of Anna Gamble (Co. Donegal) and Robbie Burns (Co. Donegal) and sister-in-law to Eileen Burns and Peter Ashenhurst. Predeceased by her parents Joseph and Elizabeth Burns and brother Sammy.

Born in Kilmacrenan, Co. Donegal, Ireland, Fran came to Hamilton, dedicating 30 years as a labour and delivery nurse at St. Joseph's Hospital, touching countless lives. As a Girl Guide leader and commissioner, she inspired many young girls. Her green thumb was evident in her volunteer work with the horticultural society and her beautiful gardens. Fran also served her community through Meals on Wheels and played a role in developing midwifery in Ontario. She found joy in cross-stitching, knitting, baking, and travelling. Georgian Bay and the family cottage held a special place in her heart. Above all, Fran cherished time with her grandchildren, and friends who became family. Her love and warmth will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held at The Ancaster Old Town Hall, 310 Wilson Street East, on Tuesday, August 27, 6pm - 9pm. Please come as you are most comfortable.

In lieu of flowers, donations made to Saint Luke’s Place Welcome Home Fund (https://tinyurl.com/SLP-Welcome-Home), would be appreciated by the family.

Please visit Fran's online obituary notice to leave messages and condolences for her family: https://www.tricitycremations.com/obituaries-condolences/frances-elizabeth-ashenhurst-ne-burns

Kimberly Ann Kirschbaum

Kimberly Ann Kirschbaum, 62, of Kitchener, Ontario suddenly passed away on July 12 2024 from health issues. Her loss was unexpected and the family is shocked and deeply saddened.

Kimberly was born on August 3 1961 to Shirley and Addison Kropf in Wellesley, Ontario. Kimberly was a caring wife to late Stephen Kirschbaum, a loving mother of Trevor, Melissa, Brieanne and her late daughter Alexi, a grandmother to 9 grandchildren. After her mother Shirley's passing in 2009, Kimberly also spent her time taking care of her sister Cindy with special needs.

Anyone who knew Kimberly, knew that she was incredibly kind and caring, She was the type of person you could meet and instantly get along with. She had such a love for travelling and concerts, making new friends everywhere she went. She loved cooking and baking and most importantly was there to always lend an ear to listen and a shoulder to cry on. Kimberly’s family and friends will miss her more than words can say.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be for immediate family only.

Please visit Kimberly's online obituary notice to leave messages and condolences for her family: https://www.tricitycremations.com/obituaries-condolences/kimberly-ann-kirschbaum

Natalka (Anita) Brown

1931 –2024

Passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family on Thursday July 4, 2024 in her 93rd year.

Beloved wife of the late Willis Brown who predeceased her on May 24, 2015. They were married for 59 years. Devoted mother to Carol Best ( Larry), Rick, Lorie, Gary and Wendy Brown. Loving grandmother to Quinton, Jillian and Spencer.

Predeceased by her parents Michael and Nellie (nee Kapshey) Stecyk and by her siblings: Annie, Steve, Mary, Johnny, Olga, Mike and Nellie.

She will missed by many nieces, nephews , cousins , friends and neighbours. She was amazing at remembering their birthdays.
Anita was born in Kitchener where she lived and worked before marrying and raising the family. Anita loved to walk countless trails enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. Think of her the next time something in nature catches your attention (a beautiful flower, bird, a view or sunrise/sunset). She loved to read, crochet (a multitude of baby afghans donated), knitting, tatting, gardening and enjoyed family time. She loved camping, fishing and a good campfire to finish the day.

At her request, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will take place privately.

We wish to extend our heartfelt appreciation to all the nurses and doctors as well as Dr. Yew and the Palliative Care team for their loving care and support of Anita.

Donations may be made in her memory to Support Liver Research In Ontario (https://secure.liver.ca/site/Donation2?df_id=1534&mfc_pref=T&1534.donation=form1) as expressions of sympathy.

Please visit Anita's online obituary notice to leave messages and condolences for her family: https://www.tricitycremations.com/obituaries-condolences/natalka-anita-brown

Sandra Lee Coverdale

1966-2024

Passed away peacefully on Monday July 8th, 2024 at Lisaard House, Cambridge at the age of 57 years.

Sandra is survived by her children; Greg (Amanda), Ryan(Jessica), Maegan (Stephan), Krissandra, and Sheldon. By her grandchildren, Braedon, Reyne, Joel, Cameron, Declan, Kynlee and Abigail , by her mother, Cristina and by her siblings, Ken Coverdale and Kathy Coverdale

She will be missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbours.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lisaard House (https://lisaardandinnisfree.com/support-us/) as expressions of sympathy.

Please visit Sandra's online obituary notice to leave messages and condolences for her family: https://www.tricitycremations.com/obituaries-condolences/sandra-lee-coverdale

John (Jack) Daniel O’Brien

1937 – 2024

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved father on July 5, 2024. He departed this life at the age of 86, surrounded in the love of his family.

Born and raised in Hamilton, Jack had a fulfilling career with Dominion and Consumers Glass, working in both Canada and Australia. In 1981, he moved his family to Toronto and transitioned into a successful career as a courier broker. Upon his retirement at 65, he relocated to Cambridge to live with his daughter Kim and her family, where he found joy in gardening and cherished moments spent with his grandchildren.

Jack's memory will forever be cherished by his children Kim, Dan (Brooke), and Dawn. He was a devoted Papa to Teri Bryans, Codie O’Brien, Paige O’Brien, Connor Pickles, Wyatt O’Brien, and Emily Pickles, and a loving Great Papa to Roxton, Sadie, Huxley, and Jack. He is also survived by his sister Clare Leduc of Hamilton. Jack was predeceased by his sisters Maureen, Kathleen, and Helen Black, and his brothers Charlie, Lawrence (Larry), and Michael (Mick).

Cremation will take place, and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jack's memory to the Alzheimer’s Foundation (https://alzheimer.ca/en) would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.

Please visit Jack's online obituary notice to leave messages and condolences for his family: https://www.tricitycremations.com/obituaries-condolences/john-jack-daniel-obrien

Alexander Stephan Nicholas de Wet

July 30th 1986 - May 29th 2024

A Life Short Lived

Will be missed by all those who had the opportunity to know him. The loving son of Nina (deceased) and James. Husband of Nargis and father to Layla. Son in law to Hussain and Shukuria. Brother and brother-in-law to Andrew and Melissa, Paul and Amanda. Uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Please visit Alexander's online obituary notice to leave messages and condolences for his family: https://www.tricitycremations.com/obituaries-condolences/alexander-stephan-nicholas-de-wet

James “Jim” Leo Cushing

Jim at the age of 82 years has succumbed to Cancer on Friday June 28th, 2024 at Freeport Hospital in Kitchener. Jim's benevolent presence will be immensely missed by all. He was sustained in this part of his journey by the caring staff of Freeport with guidance by Father Cruz & Jim's enduring faith.

Born and raised on the Cushing Farm near Drayton, he started out in banking, transferred to Toronto & Hamilton, worked at Uniroyal Elmira, was a Delivery Driver with B&D deliveries Guelph & retired in Kitchener, then moved to Cambridge last year.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11am on Friday July 12thin St John's Roman Catholic Church 85 Strange St Kitchener. Private interment will take place in Elmira.

A Celebration of Life is awaiting your participation, with food, drink & revelry, Saturday July 13th from 1pm - 3pm.at Royal Canadian Legion Branch # 126 334 Westminster St N Preston.

In lieu of flowers, sympathy donations can be sent to Canadian Cancer Society (https://cancer.ca/en/).

Please visit Jim's online obituary notice to leave messages and condolences for his family: https://www.tricitycremations.com/obituaries-condolences/james-jim-leo-cushing

Barry Wayne Boniface

1950-2024

Passed away on Thursday June 27th, 2024 surrounded by the love of his life , Patricia in Kitchener at the age of 73 years.

Barry was born in Galt to the late George (2000) and Olive Rush ( 2011). He attended Galt Collegiate and graduated with honours from the Toronto School of Embalming. His apprenticeship began at Speers Funeral Home and Turner and Porter both Toronto firms. He became a draftsman for Ron Thom, an award winning Canadian Architect. Barry loved the Frank Lloyd Wright Prairie Style and minimalistic architecture, this was his job of a lifetime. Following Thom’s death, he was a Draftsman at George Boniface’s Architecture and Engineering firm. Later in his career, he became the Chief Estimator for Freure Construction both based in Kitchener.

Beloved spouse and best friend of Patricia McCabe. He is survived by his children; Matt, Barkley, Sarah, Fran, Yvonne and Sean McCabe-Boniface and by his step children; Leanne, Murray, Cheryl and Matthew Ostrander. Dear Brother in law of Anne Boniface.

He is predeceased by his siblings, G. Terry (2000), Lois Coleman (2014) and by his brother-in-law Dr. Jim Coleman (2020)

Barry was a devout Christian being raised in the Anglican Church /Free Methodist church which his grandparents helped to establish in Galt. Following his career, he studied GOD’s word, writing and teaching bible classes. After attending many churches, he finally found acceptance and comfort in the Kristova Pentekostna Drkva. Language is no barrier. He found the presence of GOD in correct teaching, worship and support in this church “ His last area of studies was that of Forgiveness.

“Unforgiveness is a Barrier to the answer to your prayer. BEFORE you pray, FORGIVE.

Forgiveness is not an emotion but a decision of the will. Your life will be greatly blessed by letting go of the past and forgiving”.

Barry had a very diverse range of interests; studying GOD's word, classical music , painting, drawing beautiful animals, plants, landscapes, buildings and collection of old car models especially his favourite, the Rolls Royce. He was busy over the winter decorating plant pots for Patricia’s collection of house plants. A gift that she will always treasure . He enjoyed the important things like spending time talking about the past, future and what awaits us.

Words from Patricia “It has been a blessing to support and care for Barry during the end stage of his life. I love him dearly and will never forget him. He truly is the love of my life. Also, I am truly thankful for his daughters who helped him when he returned from several years in the US with a horrible diagnosis and emergency surgery. GOD BLESS you all.”

In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of life will be held at later date.

Donations may be made to Foodbank and would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.

Please visit Barry's online obituary notice to leave messages and condolences for his family: https://www.tricitycremations.com/obituaries-condolences/barry-wayne-boniface

Losing a child is an unimaginable loss, but it is possible to find hope again. In honour of Bereaved Parents Month, we extend to you some helpful resources to support you in your grief journey, always available at www.tricitycremations.com/grief-resources

Heinz Guenther Jankowsky
1928- 2024

It is with great sadness and much love that we mourn the passing of Heinz Guenther Jankowsky of Kitchener, Saturday June 22nd 2024 at the age of 95. He was surrounded by family and passed away peacefully.

Predeceased by his loving wife, Flora Jean Jankowsky. He will be dearly missed by his brother Ulrich Jankowski of Germany. Son’s John (Dorothy), Lloyd (Linda). His 4 grandchildren. Chris, Tanya (Joe), Erika (Derek) and James (Janine). Along with his 4 beautiful great- grandchildren. Summer, Claire, Leo, and Enzo.

Heinz enjoyed travelling to Florida and all over the states every fall/winter for 10 years. He eventually sold his Florida home to be home to spend time with his sons and watch his grandchildren grow. He had a love for games especially ping pong and puzzles. He enjoyed the outdoors and going for his daily bike rides and walks and camping in the summer time. He always joined the family for birthdays, barbecues, Sunday dinners and special events with his video camera in hand capturing every moment.

A private family gathering will take place at a later time.

The family would like to thank all the nurses and doctors as well as the Palliative Care team for their loving care and support of Heinz during his last weeks.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer society https://cancer.ca/en/ways-to-give/personal-donation in Heinz name.

Messages and condolences may be left for the family at www.tricitycremations.com or 519.772.1237.

Andy Visser

Born February 3, 1940. His journey ended at 1:00am on June 15, 2024.

He was the sixth child born to N***e and Riemke Visser in Paesens, Netherlands. Devoted husband to Wendy (nee Waterhouse) and loving father to Heather Visser Greson (Sean Greson). Brother to Bill, Norm, Mary and Rhea and brother-in-law to Gary.

Cremation has taken place. Donations in Andy’s memory may be made to Innisfree House (https://lisaardandinnisfree.com/).

Please visit Andy's online obituary notice to leave messages and condolences for his family: https://www.tricitycremations.com/obituaries-condolences/andy-visser

The Downside of Love

Hand in hand
we leave the sanctuary
as husband and wife.
Side by side
we enrich the soil
in the garden of each other.

Time, like youth high-steps in front
and hand in hand, we rear pigs,
milk cows, plant crops
harvest sun-fed fields,
and bloom a child,
the only one.

Side by side, we weather seasons
of too much rain, or not enough,
and when storm clouds threaten
the horizon of us, we hang on tight,
while time, like a long distance runner
paces our course.

Hand in hand, retirement and turning golden
are bridges crossed awhile back
and after half a century together,
time closes its eyes, leaves us behind.
Side by side, we ponder
who will be first
to venture through the open door
and who will be the one
to brave grief-filled tomorrows.

© Wendy Visser

George Murray McCaig

1931 - 2024

With loving family at his side, George Murray McCaig died peacefully at Kitchener after a courageous battle with cancer and its complications at the age of 93. George was unwavering in his devotion to and affection for his adoring wife, and best friend, Ellie (nee Cora Eleanor Smith) with whom he would have celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary on June 30th. He loved and was proud of his son Dave McCaig and Michele, Ann McCaig the mother of his wonderful granddaughters Rachel and Sarah, and Michele’s daughters Kayla and Megan. They all brought him ideal joy. He loved watching Dave become an accomplished pianist and Rachel and Sarah grow into wonderful young ladies. He was proud of Dave, his accomplishments, and the man he had become.

He is survived by his sister Marian (Mrs. Ted) Warren of Waterloo and her family. He is predeceased by his parents John and Annie McCaig of Kitchener. He will be missed by his many friends and neighbours.

Everyone who knew George will remember his sensitivity, his deep love of family and friends, his courage, honesty, and his sense of loyalty and caring for those around him. He was an amazing man who lived his life true to his beliefs and values.

As a young man he was a Cubmaster, coached baseball, was secretary for the Western Horse Association of Ontario, helped with the training of newcomers on the Dale Carnegie course for Professional Development, enjoyed owning and riding his horse at the Sunset Saddle Riding Club where he met Ellie, target pistol shooting, and playing the guitar and banjo. In his later years golf, tennis, music, target shooting with his son, and travel enriched his life and left a legacy of many happy memories and friends in and around Sault Ste. Marie, Elliot Lake, Goderich, Burlington, Burnaby, Kitchener, New Dundee, Florida, Mexico, and Muskoka – all the stories for which he loved to recount. For the last number of years of his life, he had great pleasure in tracing his family history through Genealogy, documenting his father's line to a marriage in Cumnock, Ayrshire, Scotland in 1795.

Cremation has taken place. Arrangements are being made as to when friends may visit with the family for a Celebration of a Life Well-Lived. Memorial donations could be made to St. Mary's Hospital (https://supportstmarys.ca/) or Grand River Hospital (https://grhf.ca/), Kitchener.

Please visit George's online obituary notice to leave messages and condolences for his family: https://www.tricitycremations.com/obituaries-condolences/george-murray-mccaig

Cheryl Mary Wise

1946 – 2024

Passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on June 9, 2024 at Freeport Hospital in Kitchener, Ontario.

Beloved wife to Tim Wise for 57 years – the greatest woman in his life. Loving mother of Anthony Wise (Heather) and Christopher Wise (Christine). Proud grandmother of Rachel Wise. She will be sadly missed by family and friends.

Cheryl was employed as a cashier at Harvey’s in Cambridge. She enjoyed spending time with her family and having the occasional beer and cigarette.

Cremation has taken place. As per Cheryl’s wishes, there will be no formal memorial service.

Please visit Cheryl's online obituary notice to leave messages and condolences for her family: https://www.tricitycremations.com/obituaries-condolences/cheryl-mary-wise

Garnet “Gary” Austin Foran

Garnet “Gary” Austin Foran, 83, passed away Monday, June 10, 2024.

Gary was born August 25, 1940 in Sudbury, ON, the youngest child of Frank and Ann Foran (née Kirwan). His youth was shared between Preston, Sudbury and rural Nova Scotia.

Of the many beautiful things that Gary was, perhaps the most important of those was being a man of gratitude. Although tragedy struck early in his life with the death of his mother, he went on to live a life that greeted each day and each person as a gift.

Lifelong, he was thankful for the foundations of faith, compassion and confidence that a few remarkable nuns at St. Clement’s school first encouraged in him. Those foundations led him to study at the seminary at Université Saint-Paul Ottawa, then to a brief time as a grade school teacher, and then into a 31-year career at the South Waterloo Housing Authority where he and his staff helped house families and seniors.

The highlight of Gary’s brief teaching career came in June 1969 when he was introduced to a delightful young supply teacher named Connie who had a smile he couldn’t forget. The two would marry in 1972 and start a family in, of all places, Hespeler.

Gary loved his city of Cambridge. He volunteered for years on the boards of the Cambridge Memorial Hospital, Trinity Community Table, Cambridge Food Bank, Knights of Columbus and St. Clement’s Parish.

His greatest joy in life was his family. We, his family, hope to carry forward his warm heart, helping hands and joy for life.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, his stepmother Del, his parents-in-law Alfie and Florence House, and his brothers Vernon, Ronnie and Jackie.

He is survived by his wife and best friend Connie, along with his sons Tim (Sacha Bradley) and Matt (Mandi Siatkowski), his grandchildren Coco, Goldie, Ginger and Charlie, his brother Richard and many cherished cousins.

As per Gary’s wishes, there will not be a visitation after his passing. He believed he’d already been blessed with beautiful goodbyes from all the friends, colleagues and family that stopped in to see him in recent months at Cambridge Memorial Hospital and Innisfree Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations be made to Innisfree Hospice (https://lisaardandinnisfree.com/), the tiny and wonderful hospice that provided the most compassionate care for Gary in his final weeks.

The family would also like to thank the doctors and nurses at Cambridge Memorial Hospital’s Medical Daycare Team who cared for him with joy and determination during his ten years of cancer treatment.

Gary’s Celebration of Life will take place at St. Clement’s Church Saturday June 15th at 11:00am. St. Clement’s was special to him his whole life long, home to his baptism, wedding and funerals for many of his most cherished friends and family. The celebrant for this mass will be our cousin, Father Murray McDermott.

Please visit Gary's online obituary notice to leave messages and condolences for his family: https://www.tricitycremations.com/obituaries-condolences/garnet-gary-austin-foran