Dear Jennifer:

I’m so sorry to get this terrible news. On a plane to the US as I type – will get in touch ASAP.

My sincerest condolences. He was a great harp player, a great friend and a great guy…

Jim

Dear Jennifer,

We met last year at my parents home, you and Gary were attending my brother Angus’ memorial. He and Gary were old and good friends and Angus would always have us in stitches whenever he told stories of their shenanigans as teenagers. I was deeply saddened to learn of Gary’s sudden passing and wish to offer my deepest sympathies to you and your family.

sincerely,
Catrina Wood

Dear Jennifer,

I am deeply saddened by this grave news! May the good Lord comfort you and your family in this distressful time.

Gary and I spent a lot of time together as friends and associates,
and we had some wonderful fun times together. I relished his wit and sense of humor. His outside the box ideas still bring a smile to my face. He’s a gem and he made a lot of people happy with his upbeat personality.

Please know that you and your family are in Kathy and my prayers! Our heart filled sympathy is extended to you, your family, and all of Gary’s friends.

Dan Patrick

Dear Jennifer,

Erich and I are deeply sorry for your loss. We will never forget how warm, open and honest he was with all of us. Garry always had a joke or a story to share and brough a lightness to our lives.

We extent our sincere condolences to your family.

Erich and Kate

Jennifer this is a terrible shock. Gary was such a kind and generous man. I enjoyed his harp playing at the AJAC event and was reminded how energetic and creative he was.

We will all miss him so terribly.

John

Jennifer, Steve, Alex and Hali,

We can’t express in words how sad we are to hear the news of Gary’s passing. He was always such a happy fun loving guy, always a story (or a hundred) to tell. We will miss standing out on the street on those warm summer evenings just shooting the breeze with him and his latest escapade. He had so many friends and knew how to enjoy life. It’s too soon. He will be missed by many many people. Please call if you need anything.

Jennifer I am so sorry to hear about Gary. I worked with him for many years at AVP and he kind and fun to be around – never a dull moment. My deepest sympathy to you and the boys.
Susan

Dear Jennifer, our prayers and sympathy are with you. Gary and I got to know each other thru our Goodyear days and we shared a lot of laughs and memorial Monday morning hockey games. He will be sadly missed.

Tom and Vicki Smith

We just received this terrible news. Our hearts go out to you and all your family. The last time we saw Gary he was beaming ear to ear, singing his heart out with his handsome son rocking on beside him. That is an image we will always retain. He was bursting with life and good cheer…as always.

Craig and Jennifer Brown

On behalf of the Board of Directors, Chamber Staff and the membership, I offer sincerest sympathy to all of Garry’s family and friends. – Kelly Darnley

I am so sorry to hear this terrible news. Gary was such a wonderful gentleman. My sincerest sympathy to your entire family.

Ellen Timms
Port Credit Business Association

Dear Jennifer,

I only had the opportunity to meet with you on two short occasions, but I did know Gary and enjoyed all the time I spent with him. His wit, sense of humour, passion and story-telling were all only pieces of the man, but he always left me feeling better about myself and good about life.

I can’t fathom the loss you’re experiencing. But please know that I and countless others have had our lives touched by him and that he made our time together on this planet better.

I will miss him. I will remember him.

With my sincerest condolences on your loss,

Peter C. Smyrniotis

Dear Jennifer,
Our deepest sympathies go out to you and your family at this very difficult time. Gary was such a fantastic person and always larger than life, we will definitely miss him.

The Pavia Family

Dear Mrs. Dolson & Steve,

My sincere condolences to you and your family. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. His spirit will be with you forever hold the memories close to your heart and that will help you heal.

-Ashley Daya

I’m am so sorry to hear about Gary and my heart goes out to his family. He was a kind and caring professional who looked after his clients to a fault. He was so diligent and thorough in keeping me always in the loop with his new and exciting plans. I will miss his gentle ways.

Trevor Barton

Dear Jennifer and family,

My deepest sympathy goes out to you, Alex, Steve and family. Gary held a spirit like no other. He was an extraordinary person … passionate, energetic and generous. Gary always took life in stride … he had a positive energy that he shared with all. Please accept my sincere condolences and know that you and the family are in my thoughts and prayers. Gary will truly be missed.

Jane Wilcox

Jennifer and boys

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I have some of the greatest memories with Gary and Barry…we can only hope they are together again. I always remember Gary’s big smile. He would always be the guy looking after us when we went to all the games. I would be there but I am in FL. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Jennifer, Alex and Steve,

We are extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Gary.He was an absolute character in many ways and his upbeat, genuine and sincere enjoyment of people resonated in all that he did. I was always amazed at his ability to walk up to anyone and strike up a conversation and a short time later it was like they were lifelong friends.He touched many, many people in a very positive way and we are all much better off in having the priveledge of knowing him.. His legacy will live on in perpetuity, he was a proud family man, business associate and confidante.
His guidance helping Meghan to start her career in Media is an example of his gererousity and selflessness.
We will miss him terribly and our thoughts are with you all at this difficult time.
The McGarrell Family

Dear Jennifer:

It was with shock and great sadness that we heard the news. We knew Gary through Goodyear for many years. His sense of humour and love of life will be remembered always. May God be with you and your family during this time.

Dear Jennifer and family,

I am so sorry to hear about Gary’s passing.
His smile, his enthusiasm and his friendship will be sorely missed.

Gary always had a great story, a new contact and a new idea to share.
A wonderful and colourful character.

You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

I’m so saddened to hear of Gary’s passing. Gary and I first met twenty-five years ago while attending a tire industry convention – we were working for competing companies. Within five minutes of Gary initiating our first chat he had me feeling like we’d been friends for life. From then on whenever we met he always shared a great story or a good laugh. He was a ‘glass half-full’ kind of guy, always expressing positive karma. Last year I was thrilled to see him share his passion for harmonica playing at the AJAC 30th birthday celebration. I will always remember seeing how much fun he was having entertaining his friends.

My deepest sympathies go out to all of his family and friends.

Jud Buchanan

I’m so sad, there’s only 1 Gary Dolson.
The world loves him and we will have to do our best to keep smiling, laughing and honouring such a great humanitarian.
My love to his family and friends. I knew Gary through Paul & Sue Toyne and I’m sending them a big hug.
Peace Gary Peace
oxo Johnny C

Jennifer, Alex, Steve and Hali:

I am so deeply saddened over the sudden loss of Gary. There has been many occasions to sit and chat on the driveways, or talk over dogs and hockey and other topics.

I want to offer our sincere condolences at this time.

Helen, BJ, Alexis, Rhys and Kevin Wilks

Jennifer,
I was devastated to hear of Gary’s passing. I have so many wonderful memories of working (and partying!) with Gary. His enthusiasm and zest for life were contagious! Gary would approach each special event, from Indy Races to Blimp Visits to Tire Launches, as the most important event to ever take place. You and Gary were always so kind and so supportive of me and my family. We all had fun times together and these remain as some of the fondest memories in my life.
I can’t begin to imagine the sense of loss that you, Steve and Alex are experiencing. My thoughts are with you all. Erin

Dear Jennifer and family,
I’m deeply sadden to hear that Gary’s bright light will no longer shine upon us. Even though Gary and I have not seen each other for many years his name always comes up in conversations about the good old times. He will be missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.

Words cannot express how sad we are to hear about Gary’s passing. Courteous, kind, enthusiastic, so funny, extremely professional and always willing to go the extra mile.
Gary will be missed by all who knew him.

Our sincere condolences and prayers are with all of you.

Gary will be sadly missed by his friends and colleagues at AJAC (Automobile Journalists Association of Canada). He was the best harp player that we ever had. We all have fond memories of his performances at our first journalism awards banquets back in 1992, 1993 and 1994. Of course, he was also a star last year during our 30th anniversary celebration. Sharing your sorrow and offering our deepest sympathy.

AJAC

So sorry to hear of Gary’s passing. He was a huge booster of my son Todd’s racing career, as well as my own journalistic endeavours. And a great harp player! We’ll all miss him.

I’m very sorry to hear about Gary’s sudden passing. I met him many years ago at AJAC events and have only recently rejoined the organization. Please accept my sincere condolences.

Steve Mertl
Vancouver

Dear Jennifer

Nina and I were shocked and saddened when we heard you had lost Gary.

We have been remembering all the great times we had together. The Indy Races, family events and Goodyear parties. It was great fun.

Gary and I worked many Goodyear functions together and he was always up, positive and smiling. It was a delight to work with him.

Our thoughts and sincere best wishes are with you and your family.

Bob Hayward

I will never ever see a Goodyear tire without thinking of Gary. Because as multi-faceted as he was, he had to have been the most loyal, enthusiastic, untiring spokesperson Goodyear ever had.

I was covering IndyCar racing when Gary took on the assignment of being the company p.r. person at the tracks. At that time Goodyear simply was not competitive with Bridgestone, the few Goodyear-shod cars could NOT win a race against the stickier Japanese product. But Gary only raised his own efforts in the face of this challenge, arranging interviews with Goodyear engineers, coming up with something positive weekend after weekend, marching along with the knowledge that he was repping the best tire company in the world.

He was one of the most positive persons I’ve ever met. We all could learn life lessons from him.

Gary: Thank you so much for your inspiration, your beaming, positive personality and continued friendship and association of 20 years. I shall miss you at CNW’s next Breakfast with the Media session, an event you helped develop and which you faithfully attended. Our thoughts are with your family.

Dear Jennifer, Steven and Alex,

I am so sorry to hear of your loss- the loss of a kind, outgoing and friendly person. The first time I met Gary at a work meeting, his first conversation was about his sons, who he spoke about in length, and lovingly. He always had a smile on his face and made those around him feel comfortable and welcomed, which is invaluable at the workplace and anywhere really.

My thoughts are with you and your family.

My sincere condolences.
Andrea Ivanovs

I knew Gary for so many years, and he was never anything other than incredibly friendly and always so willing to help. This is a great loss and I am so sorry to hear the news.

Jennifer

It just seems so unreal to hear of the sudden passing of our very
good friend Gary. We worked together at Goodyear and kept up
our association with the Goodyear Retirees club functions. We expected to see Gary at the November 2011 Christmas lunch–
we even reserved a place for Gary at our table but were very
disappointed that he could not make the lunch.

They don’t come any better than Gary—a real Goodyear hero

Eileen and Frank walker

Eileen and I send out our sincere condolences

I cannot believe it…
Gary was one of my best friends. His jokes and his unbelievable generosity will be sorely missed. Gary was absolutely instrumental to my professional career, as well as personally.
It’s really impossible to accept Gary’s passing! But, that’s the way it is, unfortunately…

Our deepest sympathies for Gary’s entire family.

Michael Pistol and Cassandra Vasik

Dear Jennifer,
I’ve only just received the sad news, and I’m devastated. Gary was such a good, skilled, and enthusiastice colleague. I remember best, the day he called to me in 1990 to say that there was a tire fire going on. Gary worked tirelessly to help me get ready for interviews, and was always looking for ways to promote Goodyear and the tire industry. My prayers go out to you and the family.

I am deeply saddened by Gary’s so sudden pass away. He was a great co-worker, a dear friend and a fantastic man. I can’t even express how much I will miss having him every day in the office. He will stay forever in my memory as one of the most cheerful and friendly persons I ever met. My sincere condolences go to you and your family. May you find some strength in these difficult times.

Ricardo and Magali

Jennifer,

I am truly sorry for your loss. Gary and I go back to his Goodyear days and he was one of the few Industry people I could call a friend.

Glen Konorowski

Jennifer,
I met you last year when I ran into you and Gary at the Cottage Show. Gary was so excited about his new projects with Eco Media. I still have his card on my desk. I have known Gary for so many years, going back to his Goodyear days. I am truly saddened to hear this news. I will always remember his performance on stage last October. So much talent — and he was having so much fun. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Susan Elliott

Losing a loved one is never easy; I know that from personal experience. But still, it’s impossible to get used to it in any definition of the term either. Please accept my sincere condolences for Gary’s sudden passing. I will always remember him as one of the best positive, kind and friendly persons I’ve ever known. I was an honor working with him at the company, and I am sure the good Lord is taking good care of him in his infinite compassion.

Henry

Jennifer, our heartfelt sympathy and total shock of Gary’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the boys, we have so many good memories of Gary, he will be sorely missed by everyone. We’re down in Florida now, but will be in touch when we get back. John & Mary Lee

I want to express my sincere and heartfelt condolences to Gary’s family. We will remember him as very positive, caring and friendly man who always had a smile to share with us. Gary has left so much emptiness in our office.

My prayers are with you during this difficult time. May God give you strength and peace to face his loss.

I was floored when I found out, very shocked to hear the sad news. We had many a good time over the years, with both work and social activities, especially the Goodyear Fall Dances. Please accept my deepest condolences.

I was absolutely shocked when I heard about the passing of Gary Dolson. I always called him by his middle name, Keith, and I know he got a `kick’ out of it; he often signed messages/e-mail to me with Keith.
I’m not sure when I first met him, but it seems I knew him forever.
When I toiled in the sports department at The Globe and Mail, he loved it when I managed to mention Goodyear in a stroy; once he was so proud about `prodding’ me to do feature piece on Goodyear, he has the story mounted and framed.
Gary (Keith) will be missed by all who crossed his path.

Deeply shocked and saddened when I learned of the news. Gary was always so positive when I spoke to him, regardless of day, time, or circumstance. His boundless energy served both he and his clients in good stead. I met Gary through Eco Media professionally, but it wasn’t long before it felt like he had known me for ever. A pair of long suffering Leaf fans, I’ll miss those never ending discussions.

My deepest condolences to Gary’s family. A special, unassuming individual who will be missed by all who knew him.

Dear Jennifer, Alex and Steven
I cannot express how saddened I was to learn about the passing of Uncle Gary. Always so fun and full of life. I will always remember his visits to our house as kids, coming to Acton for the annual Acton Fall Fair. Always up to something and playing tricks. I won’t forget the chicken, that would be a live chicken he put in Aunt Gayle’s bed early one morning 🙂 great fun with Gary always. I will always remember his kind words of support that gave me as a young girl about pursuing my goals and to continue to work hard and enjoy whatever I did in life . It seems to be a consistent message from everyone who has had the wonderful opportunity to know him. Such a fun loving man, I am proud to say he was my family. Take care, Jackie & family

Jen, Alex and Steve:

This is devastating news. I am at a loss for words….

Please let me know if there is anything I can do. I am so sorry i cannot attend the funeral; but, my thoughts and prayers are with the 3 of you.

I am here for you when you need someone to talk to or if you need someone to help you work through it all.

Deb

Jennifer, we were so sad to hear the news about the passing of Gary. I remember the first time I met Gary when he was working for Goodyear Tire. I had worked with many PR reps before I met Gary, and many others after. Gary was one of the best. Always positive and friendly, Gary never met a stranger. Gary and I kept in touch with each other after we worked together. Our conversations usually wrapped around family. He was a very proud father. He will be missed by everyone that were lucky enough to have met him. Our sincere condolences. Scott & Leslie.

Jennifer; My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
Gary was a remarkable individual that cherished his work and his many friendships that he made each and everyday. He had the ability to see only good things in everything he surrounded himself with and that indeed is a true testimony to his character. I had a personal friendship with Gary that i will always remember . There is no question that he has left his mark in our hearts and the Goodyear family has lost a real winner but we will always know that he will be with us today and forever

My condolences to Jenn and the boys…For anyone who knew Gary back in his Wardair days as editor of the “Superjet News”, Gary will forever be “Scoop Dolson”. One of my favorite days was a day that Gary decided he would help me clean my pool…whether I wanted help, or not…we must have lived more than an hour apart, but for those who know Gary, those sorts of considerations never entered his mind. 🙂 We spent much of the day “cleaning the pool”. Gary lay on the diving board most of the day while I did all the work, and I’m pretty sure I got in 3 or 4 words an hour…Gary handled all the rest of the conversation. I laughed all day. A great guy and friend, larger than life, in the best sense of that phrase…forever optimistic, caring …and talking! 🙂 Travel well, Gary.

Jennifer and family – We were so saddened to hear of Gary’s unexpected passing. We enjoyed our conversations with you both when we met during our many strolls on Westchester Blvd. We’ll remember with fondness his big smile and sunny positive attitude. We will keep you in our thoughts.

Lorraine and John Van Wagner

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
― Maya Angelou

I worked for many summers at Goodyear starting in 1985 and will always remember Gary’s smiling face. He made a point each and every time he stepped off the elevator on the second floor (even if he was surrounded and talking with friends) to look my way and wave and say hello. It’s little gestures from kind people like Gary that leave lasting impressions. My heart felt condolences to Gary’s family.

To Gary’s family, my deepest sympathy and condolences. I came to know Gary many years ago at the start of my tire career. He was enthusiastic, generous and keen to help. I will always remember him bubbling over with excitement about every project I covered. He was the ultimate, consummate PR person, taking bad news in stride. He was never discouraged by anything, always doing his best to promote the company and their product. I will always remember his great smile brightening my day when he greeted me. He will be missed by many.

We were stunned to hear the tragic news of Gary’s passing. I keep looking out the window thinking I’ll see him getting the mail, or talking to the neighbors. Our deepest sympathies to you Jennifer, Alex and Steve.

Jennifer, Alex and Steve.
I am deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Gary. Gary and I became instant friends and we always had a blast together…in fact as you know he introduced me to my wife. There will never be another Gary, and I am privileged to have been able to call him my friend.
He’s probably playing his harp on stage right now looking down on us. R.I.P GKD.

Dear Jenn, Alex & Steve,
I am deeply saddened at the news of Gary’s unexpected passing. He was a bright light and I will always remember him for is great sense of humour and ability to see the positive side of any situation. I knew Gary as “Scoop” during his Wardair days and some of our best laughs were shared co-authoring some stories for the company newspaper about the Wardair Slo Pitch baseball team on which we both played. When I moved west out to Vancouver, Gary made a point of staying in touch. When the indy race came to Vancouver Gary was there with passes to the race or a ride in the blimp for my wife and daughters, a highlight they will never forget. Gary will be sorely missed but not forgotten and I am a better person for knowing him. My sincere sympathies to you and the boys.

Hi Jennifer, I am so sorry to hear about Gary and will be thinking of you, Alex and Steve. Each time I would see Gary, usually at one of Paul’s get togethers, we would strike up a conversation, much like when we were younger, about hockey and sports, if I was still playing hockey, for example. It was if we were chatting when we were younger, when Gary would come by and see Paul. I enjoyed our conversations, so upbeat and caring. Gary was fun, funny and an all around great guy. I will miss him.
Melanie

Dear Jennifer and family,

We are so shocked and saddened to hear this news. Gary was such a wonderful person. He had so much joy and enthusiasm and the rare quality of making everyone around him feel good about themselves. I will never forget the day he grabbed me to go for a spin with Jim Kenzie in a Rolls-Royce. Please know that Gary will always have a special place in our hearts.

When we received the terrible news, it spread through our company in minutes. Everyone here (Inside Track Communications) has great memories of Gary.

He did little things just to be nice. Once, during the Indy, there was a ‘race fashion’ piece in the Star and it had a huge picture of a kid wearing an Inside Track hat. None of us knew about it until Gary called up, as excited as if he’d won the lottery himself, to tell us about the big exposure in the Star. He did stuff like that.

A few weeks ago at the CME, I took a shot of the media guys hanging out. Gary was in the middle of them enjoying chatting with Dean, Norris, Jeff, etc.. Let me know if you would like that pic. (greg@insidetracknews.com).

On behalf of everyone at Inside Track, we offer our condolences to Gary’s family and friends. The nice comments on this page demonstrate that he was a nice man who made a positive impression on a lot of people.

Gary was always with a smile, always upbeat no matter what the world was throwing his way, always happy to see you. We worked together over many, many years on a few things, he as the consummate PR guy and me as an editor of various magazines, but he was never like the flaks in the business – he was consistently honest, straightforward, passionate, focused and highly professional. The last time I saw him he was happily performing on stage at the AJAC party last fall. I don’t know where he got all that energy! It’s a good memory. I’ll miss him greatly, and I know I won’t be alone in that. My deepest sympathies go out to Gary’s family.

I have known Gary for many years, largely through my involvement in the community newspaper field. He was always cordial, friendly and always had time to stop and chat and catch up. I can see his smiling face vividly and will always remember him.

We are so saddened and shocked by the news. Gary’s compassion, devotion, humour, enthusiasm, encouragement…and so many wonderful qualities will always be remembered. He was a great hockey coach to our son Chris and a mentor to our daughter Andrea as she entered the automotive industry. His positive attitude and big heart will always be remembered by us…thank you Gary, we will miss you.

Jen, Alex and Steven, you are in our thoughts. May the many many happy memories sustain you at this time.
With deepest sympathy,
Frank, Jennifer, Andrea & Chris Mackay

Our deepest condolences to you and your family Jennifer. I worked with Gary at Goodyear for a number of years and was very sorry to hear of his passing.

Bill & Doreen Collier

I met Gary many years ago through business – he as a PR rep, me as a publisher (canadiandriver.com). He was one of the best public relations people in the business. He made me feel like a friend because he truly was a friend to everyone he worked with. The memory that will stick with me is Gary playing the harp on the stage at AJAC’s 30th party. He will be missed.

Jennifer,
Gill and I are in utter disbelief. We are so saddened with the loss of Gary. I have such fond memories of all the happiness he brought into our family.
We join all your friends in adding our commitment to keep those happy memories front and centre as we deal with the loss of Gary from our lives. Our thoughts are with you, Alex and Steve.
Hugs to you all, David and Gill

Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Gary was one of the characters that we all loved to be around. He always had a way of making you laugh. As a fellow PR guy we tipped a few together and shared a story or two. We have all lost a good one.

I am deeply saddened by this loss and want to extend my thoughts and condolences out to your family from both myself and the rest of my family. Gary was one of a kind and alway put a smile on my face. He had a great sense of humor and was a positive influence on both my life and that of Alex and Steve’s. Forever in our hearts.

Jennifer,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this terrible time.

Doug

Dear Jennifer, I was shocked and saddened to hear of Gary’s passing. Sheila and I extend our thoughts and condolences to you and your sons. Here’s to Gary Dolson: a loving husband and father; a true and loyal friend; the spirit of Goodyear and a tremendously talented PR man.

Gary, you will be sorely missed.

Jennifer:

Gary and I went back to his Goodyear days when I was covering motorsport for the Sun and later when I was involved in various Canadian series.

I didn’t see him very often over the years but when we met he was always upbeat, happy and bubbling with enthusiasm over whatever project he was working on at the time.

It’s so unfortunate that the good ones seem to die far too young these days.

All our best to you and your sons.

I was saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Gary. I always enjoyed his coming into the store over the many years.
May God be with you and your sons in your sorrow.
In Deepest Sympathy
Gary Brooks

Gary and I were friends many years ago in high school. We later crossed paths again working at Wardair. Though we haven’t seen him in a long time, Joan and I would often remember him. It is funny, and a testament to Gary, how often his name would come up in conversations over the years.
We are just two of many people who consider ourselves fortunate to have known Gary.
The thoughts expressed here by so many people say it all.
We hope they bring some comfort to his family now and in the future.

Jen, Alex and Steve,
Gary lit up any room when he entered. He always had a smile on his face, was enthusiasic about everything and had interesting stories to tell about his numerous experiences that were always amusing but he was filled with the most pride and glowed when he talked about his family. We know that your hearts will be forever overflowing with loving memories of him, You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
All the McCauslands

Jennifer
We were so sorry to hear of Gary’s passing. He was a wonderful man and a great story teller. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the boys as you go through this difficult time.
Mike, Jenn & Ryan Kinnon

I am still in shock and very saddened by the passing of a man who was so full of vitality and energy. He was an amazing husband, father and friend. He reminded me so much of my own dad in so many ways. They were the two boodies! Gary would do anything for you and he had the biggest heart, few people were like Gary, he was one of a kind. About fifteen years ago he arranged it so that me and my friends got pit passes during the Montreal Grand Prix Race, an amazing experience and one that we still talk about today. I shared many highlights with Gary, one for me was when he arranged so my dad got to throw out the first pitch at a Blue Jay game. This was one of my dad’s ultimate dreams. Gary was a man who made dreams come true. I was honoured to tour the old Maple Leaf Gardens and attend a few Indy races with Gary, his wife Jennifer and his sons. They also came to my wedding about two years ago, and due to the frequency they got up to dance, I knew that they were a very happy couple and best friends who were still very much in love. My heart felt condolences and prayers go out to Jennifer, Alex, and Steven and if there is anything I can do please don’t hesitate to give me a ring. I picture Gary up in heaven doing some of the things he enjoys most playing the harmonica and having a bud with his boodie! (my father) Not to worry Jennifer, Steven and Alex I’m sure Gary is in good hands now. I am thinking of all of you in your time of sorrow because I know this is a tremendous loss for all of you. Remember to stick together, love and support each other and I know you will get through it in time.
God Bless,
Lee Anne Fitzpatrick

To Steve and Family

Please accept my deepest condolences during this difficult time. Gary was such a funny and caring guy. He touched everyone’s life in a positive way. He will be missed greatly by all that knew him.

Katrina

To Jennifer & family,

My deepest sympathies and condolences.

I am so very sad to hear this news, I am on vacation in Florida and just got the e-mails.

Gary and I just e-mailed last week, we missed each other at the Motorsport show.

We shared many great times together , I will miss him.

Paul

I am very sorry for you loss and wish the best for your family in the days to come.

It is with great sadness we heard of the passing of our cousin Gary.
We will always have fond memories of our family get together s and of Gary’s enthusiasm and great sense of fun.
He will be missed.

Ron, Barb and Sandy

I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Gary. He became a good friend of myself and Against Drunk Driving (ADD) when he joined as a Director. Gary’s life and the ripple effect of goodness he created will never be matched. Gary, I will miss you, your enthusiasm, and your energy. God bless.
Tom Tumilty

Jennifer,

I just returned from a trip last night and rec’d the shocking news…I have known Gary for many years, first working with him at Goodyear on the Goodyear Blimp Calendar. He was such an enthusiastic and uplifting person – he was so passionate about everything he worked on, his energy was inspiring. I know that he is in great company with Barry Fitzpatrick and that he is smiling at us all right now.
I am so sorry for your loss and may his memories live in our hearts forever.
Jamie

I was so saddened by the news of Gary’s passing. He was always a charming and welcoming host on the car events we went to, always quick with a smile or a joke and his performance on harmonica at the AJAC anniversary party wowed the crowd and revealed a different side to a man who loved life. Even though it’s been years since he was at Goodyear, I have to echo the sentiments of others who have said that we will never see that sign or logo again without thinking of Gary.

Dear Jennifer & family. I am so sorry to hear of Gary’s sudden death, that must be so hard for you and the family. We met at my brother Angus’ wake last May and i was just looking at the photos of you and Gary just now. Gary had a smile for everyone and was filled with enthusiasm. I remember Gary way back from Leaside High and smile when i think of all the fun he and Angus enjoyed together. Now they are eternal friends.

Thinking of you all tomorrow.

Sarah

I was shocked to read in the Toronto Star about the recent loss of Gary. John and I have many fond memories of Gary when he was a young boy when we lived in Thorncliffe Park and Gary and his sister Gayle and their mom was our neighbours and we had many a good laughs.

He always had such great personality and was always a devil and getting into mischief! My mother always brought him into our place when he was ill and made him chicken soup and gave him treats.

I did have a chance to meet his lovely family. I couldn’t get over how is sons looked so much like him.

We are sorry we cannot attend the funeral but our thoughts will be with you all.

We are so sorry for Gayle and her family to.

Love

Phyllis and John Kelloway

Dear Jennifer, Alex and Steve

Our thoughts and prayers,are with you and your family,at this very
difficult time. Gary was such a wonderful person to be around. He
always had a smile and a story to tell. Gary spirit and passion of
life, will live on in your two sons, Alex and Steve. He will be missed
by all of us.
Bill, Lynn and Family.
Marie and Family

I was deeply shocked to hear of Gary’s passing. We have played Thursday Night hockey for years as we also did the Hurricane Hockey Tournament for well over 12 years .Gary was a great fun guy to be with and will truly be missed by everyone.

Jenn, Alex, Steve & Family,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.

Kevin and I will always cherish our fond memories, long conversations and much laughter shared with Gary and he will be missed as a friend and neighbor.

Gary was my cousins dear friend (Paul Steckham) and we all went to High School together, The best of times and memories for a lifetime. Rest in peace my sweet friend…

Sympathies to Jen and chidlren. May the days ahead be kind to you ….

Jennifer, Alex and Steve,

I have worked with Gary only for a few years, maybe not enough to really get to know him. Yet, I have always admired his dedication to everything has done and his kindness. He only had kind words for everybody. He was a truly remarkable individual and I will miss him very much. His untimely passing was a true shock and loss to all of us who worked with him and others who knew him.

I would like to express my most sincere condolences to you. We all will miss Gary very much.

Alf

This comes as terrible news and I am very saddened at the sudden loss. My deepest condolences to his family.
I’ve known Gary since public school – always enjoyed his exuberance, his laughter and he was a pretty good hockey player to boot. The last time we connected was at LHS reunion in 2004, much too long ago but it was an opportunity to learn about family, work and reliving a few old times. He will be missed.

I was deeply saddened and shocked to learn of Gary’s passing. I first met Gary when he was the editor of Wardair SuperJet News. I became one of Gary’s contributing writer’s for the inhouse newspaper.

Gary encouraged me to pursue my passion for writing. He was a mentor and supported me to the point my work eventually was published in newspapers and magazines.

I always enjoyed Gary’s company and our exchanges when we had a “meeting of the minds’.

My heartfelt condolences to the family.

“Blue Skies” Gary!

Your friend,
Mike

Trevor and I shared some wonderful years in hockey with Gary, Alex, and Steve – a great family affair, with Jennifer, Terrie, and Jenny in the stands. Whether coaching with Gary, or on opposite teams, he always made it great fun. He immediately befriended me when we arrived in Bolton, hooking me up with pick-up hockey and tournaments, where we enjoyed playing together.

Will miss Gary’s upbeat and outgoing personality in our street-side chats.

David

Our family extends our deepest sympathy to your family. Tiffany told us the sad news this past week. Gary was always jovial and we enjoyed listening to his interesting stories. Our thoughts are with you all at this sad time.
The Leightons

Dear Jen, Alex & Steve…(& Hayley?) the pup known affectionately as Gary’s new daughter……
Reading through these wonderful e-mail tributes makes me feel so sad like the many others who are also now away in the Florida sunshine. How I wish I could have been here for you and the boys today. There just are no words to ease your sorrow at this time. In future days we will reminisce about the hysterically funny times we had with our dear loyal friend Gary..who was often deemed “scary” by his buddy Barry.I am so grateful that we were able to spend that wonderful evening together so recently, where Gary was leading the gabfest in true form. A very special memory. One thing is certain…Gary loved his family , friends and life itself…and we all truly loved him.
With deepest condolences and love..

Jacquie Fitzpatrick and family …

Gary was the most positive person I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. I can hear him right now, “Excellent!” “Right-On!”, which he’d often say in conversation. I’ll forever remember that…

He always had something good to say – with enthusiasm and an everlasting, contageous smile. I was his “All-Star goalie” – when my efforts were mediocre at best.

I’m thankful to have been invited to a Toronto Marlies game with him and his sons early this January, and even more lucky to have sat beside him. Endless jokes and banter made the 60 minute game fly by in seconds.

I will dearly miss my coach; my neighbor; my friend.

I’m saddened to hear the news of Gary’s passing ! He will be truly missed by all!

Dear Jennifer -We just got back from vacation and heard the sad news. I spent a lot of time with Gary in the 1990’s. He did a lot for O.E. Tire Sales then, and always had a smile on his face. We had lots of fun together and he’ll never be forgotten. Linda and I always enjoyed talking to the two of you at the fall dances, and wish to offer our sincere condolences. We’ll miss Gary very much.

I was in California when I got the news…still can’t believe it. I loved this man! He was one of a kind. I’ll always remember his Goodyear days, trips we made to Daytona, Luxemburg, Switzerland…Still can’t believe it…

Salut, mon ami!

I am so sorry for your loss. I met Gary a few years back while working at the Caledon Enterprise. He always had a smile on his face and always knew how to spark up a conversation.
He will be missed.

Shirley Horsley

I just found out about Gary and I am so sad to hear this Gary was such a out going guy and every ones friend. I found a photo of Gary in the Toronto Star in the 80s of Gary playing hockey with the Leafs and kept it. Then one year at the Molson Indy I was at the Holiday in and just by chance I run into Gary and we hit it off with also the last name not knowing that I had kept that article out of the Star. He was such a great guy. Every once and a while he would sent me things from Goodyear and always ask me if I ever needed a job just ask. Gary you will be missed by me for sure it was a pleasure meeting you for sure, R.I.P . Don Dolson.