Gary Francis Pearce passed away suddenly December 6, 2005, at the age of 61. He was born in Nanaimo on November 16, 1944, to the late Francis (Frank) Pearce and Peggy Foster. He will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 37 years, Gail, his two daughters, Kerry & Kristine, son-in-law Terry, and two granddaughters, Emily & Amy-Lynn, his pride & joy. Also survived by his mother, Peg (Andy), two sisters, Carol (Gord) & Donna, mother-in-law Rose, sisters-in-laws Audrey (Doug), Beverly (Allan), Ethel, Wendy & brother-in-law Wayne (Lori), and many nieces and nephews. Also "Ma Dines" & family.
Gary's family was one of the founding families of Nanaimo. They arrived in the Nanaimo Harbour via the “Princess Royal” in 1853. He enjoyed mapping his family history, participating in Founders Day Celebrations, and hosting a family reunion for everyone in 2000.
Music was a very important part of Gary's life. He enjoyed many years of playing guitar & drums, as well as singing with the band "Island Ambassadors". The band performed at Saturday night dances which were held at Pleasant Valley Social Centre in the 1960's as well as the Rod & Gun in Parksville and local Royal Canadian Legions. He particularly enjoyed jamming with his long time friend, the late John Russell. Gary worked long and hard as a volunteer for Pleasant Valley Social Centre and was President at the time of his passing. He was instrumental in maintaining the hall as part of the community.
Funeral services for Gary Pearce will be held Saturday, Dec. 10, 2005, at 10:00 a.m. at 1st Memorial Funeral Home at 1720 Bowen Road, Nanaimo, followed by a tea in his honour from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Pleasant Valley Hall, 6100 Doumont Road.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation will be greatly appreciated.