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GARY THOMAS KOCHANSKI
Born: Nov 12, 1940
Date of Passing: Mar 23, 2025
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to Winnipeg Humane Society
GARY THOMAS KOCHANSKI
Peacefully after a full life filled with laughter and love, our beloved Gary passed away on March 23, 2025 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, surrounded by his loving family.
Gary was predeceased by his parents, Thomas and Florence, by his brothers, Tommy and Alan and by his treasured son, Jason. Left to cherish Gary are his wife Vikki, son Tyler, daughter-in-law Cindy and grandchildren, Owen and Emily.
Born on November 10, 1940 in Winnipeg's North End, Gary was a man of energy and of gregarious personality. He was, as they say, a "character". Blessed with a sense of humour, a remarkable memory and a love of people, Gary made friends easily and kept them for decades. He was a gifted teller of stories and jokes, an optimist and the life of most parties. From an early age, Gary was very hard working and independent, beginning at his parents' service station on Mountain Avenue and McGregor Street. His determination and energy were endless, and saw him find success working in the auto and real estate industries.
Family was Gary's greatest priority and joy. He shared 59 years of marriage with his beloved wife and best friend, Vikki. They started with nothing but each other, which was all they needed. Together, they created a home filled with love. Gary was a dedicated and loving father to his sons, Jason and Tyler, and also loved and greatly admired his daughter-in-law Cindy. Gary found particular joy in being a grandfather to Owen and Emily. He loved to be with them and to hear about their lives, and was so very proud of them. Gary also shared his life with a number of four legged companions, including his beloved friend Simon.
Gary enjoyed summers at the family cottage at Sandy Hook, and in later life travelled yearly to the sun of Mexico. He leaves behind many wonderful and close friends across Canada, the United States and Mexico, who brought him such joy.
While deeply saddened by Gary's passing, the love, support and laughter which he shared will always be cherished by his family.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the first responders and healthcare professionals who cared for Gary with such compassion. A very private family celebration of Gary's life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider honoring Gary's memory through a charitable donation, such as to the Winnipeg Humane Society.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 29, 2025
Condolences & Memories (13 entries)
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Vikki, Tyler and family, Gary was a very near and dear friend to me. We met in Mazatlan, Mexico 2.5 decades ago which allowed us much time to have the endless hours of enjoyment that friendship, rum, b.s. Mexico had to offer for many winter seasons. When Gary was no longer able to join all of us anymore at our reunion, we maintained our communication with many back and forth weekly calls which brought by many, many laughs. His closing statement on every call, "save a beaver, plant a tree". Vikki, Marilyn and I miss you to not being there, we'll always stay in touch. R.I.P. AMIGO. - Posted by: Terry and Marilyn Lorence (Friend) on: Apr 04, 2025
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Met Gary years ago thru the car business. He was a great friend then and remained so thru out retirement years. We will miss the short to the point phone calls, Our deepest sympathies and condolences to Vickey and family, Treasure your memories and may they be some comfort to you. RIP Gary 🙏🏻🙏🏻 Jack & Rosalie - Posted by: Jack Campbell (Friend) on: Apr 01, 2025
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We are very sorry to hear of your loss and send warmth and strength to the family. Gary was very kind to our animals over the years and we are so honoured to be named in this passage. - Posted by: Sharon Rubel/Winnipeg Humane Society (Grateful Charity) on: Mar 31, 2025
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Hi Vikki -I wanted to send a card which is what we all used to do, but I did not have your new address. So sorry to hear of Gary leaving us. He was a great neighbor in Mazatlan over many years and a good phone friend in Winnipeg. If you ever feel like chatting (whenever) I am here. Hugs to you for now. Donna - Posted by: Donna Mayor (Friend) on: Mar 30, 2025
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Dear Vikki and family. We are sorry for the loss of your dear Gary. You will all miss him but may it comfort you to know that he lived a good life, loved you all and made a difference. I think of you always and miss you Love Wanda and family - Posted by: Wanda Andres and Family (cousin to Vikki) on: Mar 30, 2025
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I will make a donation in Gary’s memory to the Humane society that organization is very important to us animal lovers. - Posted by: Anne Anderson (Friend in Calgary) on: Mar 29, 2025
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Gary and I were very close when I lived in Wpg. I considered him my big brother and we had great times together. I loved Vickie and she was the best match God could find for Gary. She was his rock. Gary was a devoted husband and father and I will miss his sense of humour. Michael Mabella, Spain - Posted by: michael kay(Kruk) (cousin) on: Mar 29, 2025
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Dear Vikki and Tyler, I am sorry for your loss of Gary. I hope and trust you are well. Gary was always a great personality and a good friend to me and others. Although I haven't seen Gary for a number of years, I still missed him and you. Your friend always, Glenna and Bob Faraci - Posted by: Bob Faraci (Friend) on: Mar 29, 2025
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To Tyler & Cindy and family. We offer our prayers and condolences in the loss of your father. Take good care of each other. We are positive he has left you with many great memories to fill your hearts. - Posted by: Bill and Sheree Hanysh (Friend) on: Mar 29, 2025
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I was so sorry to see Gary’s passing. My condolences to the Kochanski family. I will always remember Gary for his big smile and his witty humour. God bless your family🙏🌹 - Posted by: Barb Fisher (Acquaintance fr: Garden City Dental) on: Mar 29, 2025
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Went to Aberdeen School and St. Johns with Gary. Gary was a great guy, always enjoyed his company. - Posted by: Jerry wexler (Friend) on: Mar 29, 2025
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Condolences to the family. Enjoyed visits at St. Andrews. - Posted by: Lloyd & Sylvia Mazur (Neighbour) on: Mar 29, 2025
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So sorry to hear of Gary’s passing. Our love goes out to Vikki, Tyler, Cindy, Owen and Emily. He was one of a kind and such a big presence. We will fondly remember our times together in Sandyhook. Rest in peace Gary. - Posted by: Jodi and Jay Shaw (Family friend) on: Mar 29, 2025