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GARY CORNELIUS ALARDS  Obituary pic

GARY CORNELIUS ALARDS

Date of Passing: Feb 17, 2014

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GARY CORNELIUS ALARDS Suddenly on Monday, February 17, 2014 Gary was called to embark on his next great journey. With his loving wife Tracy and daughter Laura's last caress Gary made his way to that joyous retreat filled with good books, music, guitars and stimulating conversation. Born in Winnipeg, December 3, 1954 to Anna and Gerald Alards, Gary had a warm and loving childhood. Growing up in St. Vital he attended Christ the King School, Hasting's Jr High and Dakota High School. During these formative years Gary discovered his love of music and the guitar. His talents gave him a lifelong joy of singing and song writing which culminated in a large catalogue of original music. Everyone who knew Gary was touched by his intelligence, sharp wit and his passion for many interests. He was an avid reader and built an impressive library of classics including rare and first edition books. Being a true collector, Gary spent many happy hours searching the city for that vintage album, historical print or unique piece of artwork which would soon grace his home. Gary received his degree in Education from the University of Winnipeg and taught in the Winnipeg School division for several years before returning to St. Boniface Hospital. At St. Boniface Hospital Gary cared for hundreds of patients with compassion and humor and felt deeply rewarded by the experience and the camaraderie of the St. Boniface staff. Gary eventually made his home in Riverview a few years after marrying his childhood sweetheart Tracy in 1978. Eight years later Gary experienced his proudest moment when he became a father to his dearest Laura. As a devoted husband and father Gary enriched Tracy and Laura's life beyond measure. His great sense of humor kept them laughing throughout the years, he had a charm that will be dearly remembered. Gary will always be in the hearts of his family and friends. Predeceased by parents Gerald and Anna Alards, brother-in-law Chuck Hunnie. And lovingly remembered by sisters, Gertie (Dale), Allie (Al), Mary (Doug), brother Hubert (Edith), and youngest sister Rosa (partner Nick), in-laws Walter and June Hunnie, Scott ( Barb) and Elaine, also many dear nieces and nephews their spouses, partners and their children. A celebration of Gary's life will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 24, 2014 at Glen Lawn Funeral Home, 455 Lagimodiere Blvd. The family would like to thank St. Boniface Hospital staff for all their efforts on that day. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice. Family and friends may sign a Book of Condolence at www.glenlawn.ca Glen Lawn Funeral Home 204-982-7550
Publish Date: Feb 22, 2014

GARY CORNELIUS ALARDS It is with profound sadness the family announces the sudden passing of Gary Alards on Monday, February 17, 2014 at St. Boniface Hospital. A celebration of Gary's life will take place at 10:00 a.m., Monday, February 24, 2014 at Glen Lawn Funeral Home, 455 Lagimodiere Blvd. Longer obituary to follow in Saturday's edition. Family and friends may sign a Book of Condolence at www.glenlawn.ca Glen Lawn Funeral Home 204-982-7550
Publish Date: Feb 21, 2014

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 22, 2014

Condolences & Memories (13 entries)

  • Gary was one of my very first customers when I started my rare book business in Winnipeg twenty years ago. From the beginning I was impressed by the depth of his knowledge and continuing desire to learn even more. He was a kind and gentle man, yet possessed a strength of character and sense of determination that was not evident from his quiet demeanor. We enjoyed many lively debates over books and events. I will miss his visits to my shop. - Posted by: Michael Park (Friend) on: Mar 05, 2014

  • Tracy, I just heard this very sad news today. I am so very sorry for you, your daughter and family. In the next weeks and months to come it will be very important to be gentle with yourself. You are in my thoughts. Take very good care. - Posted by: Julie-Ann Waite (Co-worker to Tracy) on: Feb 25, 2014

  • Gary, gone so soon, you will be missed, - Posted by: co worker () on: Feb 24, 2014

  • My deepest condolences. I worked with Gary in Observation Unit back in the late 1970's and felt so fortunate to see him regularly over the last 20 or so years as we passed in the hall or stairwell. Gary always took a moment to say hello. I remember a time when he spoke of how busy the unit had become and his concern that he did not have enough time to spend with his patients. He was a kind and caring person and care provider. He exemplified the compassion and spirit of the Grey Nuns. Gary will be missed! - Posted by: Debbie Halhead (Co-worker) on: Feb 24, 2014

  • I had the pleasure of working with Gary on 4AS over the years. His mother-in-law was my grade 2 or 3 teacher and he often updated me on her well being. He was always kind and gentle with his patients and me. He was very witty too. He is terribly missed at the hospital as we have lost a dear friend. He was an outstanding man. Deepest sympathy to his family. April Gobert - physiotherapist - Posted by: APRIL GOBERT () on: Feb 24, 2014

  • My thoughts are with Gary's family at this very sad time. I worked directly with Gary 15 years ago at St. B (I was fresh out of University), and continued to cross paths with him on a regular basis over the years. As recently as Wednesday, February 12, I rode the elevator with him where we had a brief chat. He was great at what he did and will certainly be missed. There are many, many people very saddened around the Hospital, you didn't have to pause long to hear him being remembered throughout the facility this past week. Hoping you find some comfort in the words and fond memories others have of Gary. ~ Angela (though Gary always called me Angie) - Posted by: Angela (St. Boniface employee) on: Feb 22, 2014

  • Gary's passing is extremely sad. My thoughts are with his family during this very difficult time. I had the great pleasure of working with him on 4A at St. Boniface and he lit up the ward with his humour and intellectual conversations. I doubt that I will ever meet someone who knew as much about Bob Dylan, literature or classic movies as he did. On breaks he was always watching TCM or AMC on tv and seemed to know every film/actor/actress. He always had thought provoking comments about life that still stick in my head. He was generous and caring and I will treasure the interesting book he gave me years ago. Gary was truly one of a kind. He will be greatly missed by everyone. - Posted by: Karen Case (former co-worker) on: Feb 22, 2014

  • So sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Cheryl Bercier - Posted by: Cheryl Bercier (Co-Worker (Tracy)) on: Feb 22, 2014

  • Gary was a great man with a witty sense of humor. He was loved by all those he came in contact with. His sudden passing has affected everyone that knew him. Gary's humor, witty comments, knowledge and friendship will be (and already has been) missed by all at work. It really hit me when I sat down in our staff lounge on Thursday and Gary wasn't there.... Missing you Gary. Our kindest condolences to Tracey and Laura. - Posted by: Robyn (Coworker ) on: Feb 22, 2014

  • I will take a few minutes today to reflect on the patient and good nature of Mr. Alards. Deep condolences to his wife, daughter and family. - Posted by: Bill Peacock (former studentt) on: Feb 22, 2014

  • At this sad time we are thinking of Gary and his family and friends. We are holding you all close to our hearts. - Posted by: Joe & Joyce Kruk (Friends of the familyAt this time) on: Feb 22, 2014

  • My deepest condolences to Tracy and Laura. My name is Marc Asselin. I've been so fortunate to have known and worked with Gary for many years. Gary was a generous, caring, fun and very intelligent man. For those who know him and worked with him, you would agree. He was even a substitute teacher in one of my school classes. I am very, very sad about his early departure in life. I will miss the AM coffee breaks when he graced us with his kind way and sharp humour. My sympathy goes out to his brother Hubert, whom I worked with many years as well. I will cherish the early recorded CD he gave a few years back. Man of many talents. Peace out Gary. You're friend forever, Marc Asselin.......... - Posted by: Marc (Friend) on: Feb 21, 2014

  • RIP Gary, I had the pleasure of working with you on 4A South and you were one of the funniest men I have ever met... you made me feel like on of the team and for that I thank you ... I'm gonna miss passing you in the halls and it will never be the same up there :( RIP my friend til we meet again - Posted by: yvette leclerc (co worker and friend ) on: Feb 21, 2014

Glen Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery

Glen Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery

455 Lagimodiere Blvd. (Map)
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