Garry Frank Hodge
June 25, 1943 – November 23, 2022
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 63 on Sunday, June 25, 2023 at 12 noon. Interment will take place at a later date.
It is with immense sorrow that we announce the passing of Garry on November 23, 2022 at Foyer Lacombe Hospice in St. Albert, Alberta.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Vivian; daughters Erin (Justin) Leclerc, Angie (Darrell) Rody, Julie (Cyril) Acres; beloved grandchildren: Taylor, Jayden, Logan, Jacey, Ethan, and Roman; sisters: Pamela (Paul) Kidney, and Patricia (Rick) Orwald; nieces and nephews: Christopher, Jamie, Kristen, Tannis, Craig, Melanie, Derek, Darren; and many great nieces and nephews.
Garry is predeceased by his parents, Frank and Doris, as well as his brother, Terry.
Garry Frank Hodge was born June 25, 1943 in Scarborough, England. At 17 years of age, he permanently immigrated to Canada and spent some time in Timmins, Ontario working in the mines. It was there, at the age of 21, that he met his soulmate and wife, Vivian. Within weeks of dating, they wanted to marry, and did so six months after they met, on November 7, 1964. Garry and Vivian lived much of their earlier marital years between Toronto and South Porcupine/Timmins in Ontario where they could happily remain close to family. Work eventually drew them to Northwestern Ontario and settled in Dryden, where they felt most at home.
Over the years, Garry had several jobs which interwove him into the community; Standard Auto Glass, custodial staff at KPDSB, small business owner, and upholsterer. He made many great friends at these jobs and could be found having coffee with them at Robin’s Donuts.
One of Garry’s great passions was soccer. He always tried to stay involved at some level, whether it was coaching, serving on the board, playing, referring, organizing events, or simply spectating – he was there. All-in. 100%.
Garry was a very involved grandfather and treasured the time his two oldest grandchildren lived with him. He was at his happiest when he had a full house; there was always coffee brewing and would offer a seat at the table to anyone in need. Those who knew Garry well, knew he loved a good party and never passed up the opportunity to dance. That’s why he was overjoyed when his youngest granddaughter took up dancing much like his youngest daughter, Julie.
The latter part of Garry’s life was spent out West, in the Edmonton region, with his daughter Angie and family. He thoroughly enjoyed watching both his grandson’s hockey games and teasing them that he’ll never be an Oilers fan. Toronto Maple Leafs all the way for him! His youngest daughter Julie, and her family, also relocated to Alberta to be closer. Family dinners on Sundays were one of his favourite things to do, but you better not forget the Yorkshire Puddings!
A small memorial service was held in Spruce Grove, Alberta on November 30, 2022.
The family wishes to thank all of the healthcare experts at the Edmonton Cross-Cancer Institute, the home care nurses, and the incredibly caring staff at Foyer Lacombe Hospice.
Condolences can be sent: https://www.mykeeper.com/profile/GarryHodge/
