It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Gary Leonard Drake on January 5, 2025 at 83 years of age. Gary left this life to reunite with his beloved wife of 57 years, Marilyn Gertrude (nee Fisher). Gary is predeceased by his brother, Donald, parents, Sandy (nee Hall) and Leonard. Loving father of Cary (Laura) and Kyle (Christine) and an exceptionally loving Papa of Garrett who guided him on many adventures. Loving uncle of Dave (Antonia), Leslie, as well as Michael Barker (Kim) and Kim (Larry) Coburn. He is predeceased by his sister-in-law, Shirley Fisher, his nephews, Richard (Ricky) Barker and Tim Drake. Gary is also survived by several cousins and will be remembered fondly by his extended family.
Gary was born in Hamilton on November 23, 1941. He grew up on the mountain on E15th St. and attended Hill Park High School. Like so many Hamiltonians, Gary started working in the steel industry after high school taking positions at Stelco and Algoma Steel. Gary met his true love, Marilyn, while working at Stelco and the two married on October 16, 1965 at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, Hamilton. As Gary progressed in sales with Algoma Steel, so did their requirement to relocate for work. Leaving Hamilton with stops in Sault Ste. Marie, North Delta, BC and Burlington, they raised two sons and made lifelong friends along the way. Gary had an entrepreneurial spirit upon returning to Burlington opening his first of several businesses; DLT Steel Sales (with former Algoma colleagues) then a Mail Boxes Etc. store and finally into retirement with his home-based company Graphics & Flyers. Gary and Marilyn moved to Brantford for their retirement years and enjoyed the company of their many new neighbors.
Gary was proud to be a Big Brother to Rod, and also very giving with his time from coaching minor hockey to being treasurer for the Probus Club in Brantford. Gary was in his element meeting new people and playing golf, both of which were part of 15 winters vacationing in Gulf Shores, Alabama where they met wonderful friends.
Gary was generous, pragmatic and a resilient person. Later in life he faced challenges from symptoms of hydrocephalus, despite this, he always had the ability to find humor.
A special thank you to his friends and dedicated staff of Centennial Parkway at Henley House. We are so grateful our worlds came together to give Gary his best finish. Also, sincere regards to Seniors for Seniors who provided wonderful support for our family. A memorial service and interment will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hydrocephalus Canada or Big Brothers Big Sisters of Halton/Hamilton. https://donate.mytributegift.org/?cid=16e255618891e0aa767e8423d427a212f03ba06bbf0a44599156cd9b90b2eaeb&fh=FRP-308918&fp=3089186b5c6c0632d102cc0b9fbb841d8e
Arrangements entrusted to Considerate Cremation & Burial Services, 26 Nihan Drive, St. Catharines (between Lake Street & Scott Street), 289-362-1144. Online condolences may be made at CCBSCares.ca
