May 12, 1943 - July 16, 2024
In loving memory ~
Gary Johnson passed away suddenly on July 16, 2024.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Beryl; their daughter, Nicole, and her children, Dylan and Brooklyn; sons, Jeff and Kirk, and Kirk's wife, Anna, and their children, Ava, Isaak, and Oliver; and his sister, Diane, and her husband, Barry, and their children, Michelle and Stephen, and in laws Robert and Lesley Manson.
Gary was the grandson of French-born Henry Mortimer Johnson, who arrived in the community of Saint Lazar, Manitoba, at age 14 as an indentured laborer. His British family attempted to provide for him in this way, having lost all their money in the California gold rush and moved to France to escape their family's scrutiny.
Gary was born May 12, 1943 and raised in Melita, Manitoba, where his family ran a barber shop, bowling lane, and pool hall. His great people skills and financial acumen probably developed as a result of being given the two-table pool hall side of the business at an age when he was still so young that he required a stool to see the games being played.
Gary dedicated three decades of his life to Child and Family Services, serving in various roles, including Acting Director. But his impact extended far beyond job titles and office walls. To Gary, the people he worked with were not just colleagues; they were the best of the best. Their collective brilliance made him shine, and he never missed an opportunity to express his admiration for their dedication and excellence.
Summers found Gary, Beryl, and their family at their cottage in Lac Du Bonnet. Guests were always welcome, and he loved spending time with every person there. He'd take the kids fishing, snake catching, waterskiing, tubing, or diving and sliding down the falls at the Pinawa Dam. Whatever made them happy was exactly what he wanted to do. Trips to the local quarry to get sand for the cottage would result in a station wagon blazing back to the cottage, towing a trailer full of sand, with four or five very happy kids atop the mound. It was a special time. Summers were filled with lots of good times and adventure.
Books were Gary's faithful companions. His love for reading knew no bounds, and you'd often find him engrossed in multiple books simultaneously. But Gary wasn't content with solitary pursuits; he thrived on social connections. Hours melted away on golf courses, and evenings were more often than not marked by spirited card and Scrabble games with friends and family.
Travel was another passion. Gary and his loved ones crisscrossed North America and Europe, sailing on cruises and exploring different countries and cultures. His days were shaped by an inherent good nature, kindness, sense of humor and a strong work ethic.
And then there was sports—the pulse of his heart. Hockey and football stirred his soul. Gary's loyalty to Winnipeg teams was unwavering and unimpacted by the fact that he had moved to BC; he faithfully watched every Winnipeg Jets and Blue Bombers game. His cheers echoed through living rooms with every goal or touchdown.
Rest in peace, Gary.
You've left an indelibly mark,
and your memory will be with us forever.