Gary Earl AVERY Obituary

Peacefully at the Brantford General Hospital on Monday, April 20, 2026 in his 88th year, Gary Avery, beloved husband of Shirley Avery (nee Maich). Loving father of Connie (Marty) Heron, Patti (Ed) Glover and predeceased by son, Craig Avery. Dear brother of Ted Avery and the late Dennis Avery. Much loved Papa of Christine (Brennan) Drumm, Michelle Heron (Cliff Phillips), Larissa (Garnet) Henrich, Brooke Glover (Riley Carr) and Great-Papa of Leo, Finn, Nora, Emry and Daulton.

For 44 years, Gary was the proud owner of Avery's Source For Sports in Brantford, a beloved local shop that supported generations of families with their sports gear and equipment. Many families bought their first bikes or hockey sticks or stopped in to have their skates sharpened.

Gary was a longtime member of the Brantford Golf and Country Club, where he enjoyed 43 years of regular golf membership and countless rounds with friends. A natural athlete, he was an exceptional first baseman who kept a scrapbook filled with newspaper articles highlighting his many accomplishments on the field. Gary also spent many years playing hockey, bringing the same passion, teamwork, and competitive spirit to the rink as he did to every part of his life. Gary was also a member of the Brantford Piston Pushers Car Club.

Gary and Shirley shared 67 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. Among their many travels, their regular trips to St. Pete Beach held a special place in their hearts. There, at Hideaway Sands, Gary became affectionately known as the "mayor," greeting everyone with his trademark smile, a joke ready to brighten the moment, and a rye and coke in hand. His warmth, humour, and easy friendship made him unforgettable to all who crossed his path.

Family meant everything to Gary. He loved nothing more than gathering everyone together around the pool, cheering at sports games, proudly attending dance recitals and giving rides in his red convertible. Those moments filled him with joy. To so many, he was simply "Papa" or "Great-Papa," a name even the grandchildren's friends lovingly used.

We wish to express our sincere appreciation for the meals, transportation to the hospital, phone calls, and the many thoughtful gestures we received. Your support has been deeply meaningful. We would like to offer particular thanks to Cora and Bob McDonald, Sue and Andy Szalai and Cheryl Hotte for their exceptional kindness.

Special recognition to the following nurses Brenda, Duska, Michelle and Meredith for their exceptional care on C4 and B6.

Family and friends will be received at the McCleister Funeral Home, 495 Park Road North on Sunday, April 26, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. and Monday, April 27, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Memorial Service in the Chapel on Monday, April 27, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Cremation has taken place. A private family inurnment service will take place at Mt. Hope Cemetery at a later time. If wished, memorial donations to Canadian Cancer Society or the Stedman Hospice gratefully appreciated. Condolences and memories may be viewed by the family at mccleisterfuneralhome.ca.

 

McCleister (519) 758-1553.

https://brantfordexpositor.remembering.ca/obituary/gary-earl-avery-1093745457