Obituary of Garry Gales
Garry Gales Memorial Service Livestream
Gales, Charles "Garry":
After a long and courageous fight against cancer, Garry Gales, 84 years, passed away at home on April 14, 2025.
A lifelong resident of Chatham, Ontario he was the beloved husband of 61 years to Dorothy (Richardson) Gales. Son of the late Charles and Helen (Martin) Gales, whose values shaped the man he became.
Loving father to Cynthia Fortura (Peter), Lisa Gales, Allan Gales (Shawna) and the late Stephen Gales (1988).
Cherished grandpa to Laura Lemieux (Zak), Nicholas Fortura, Sophie, Violet and Evelyn Gales.
Great-grandpa to newborn grandson, Max Lemieux.
Caring brother to Gordon Gales (Lucie) and Janet Duffy. Brother-in-law to Shirley Clark (the late Doug), Nancy (Chuck) Homewood, and the late Janet James.
He will be missed by many nieces, nephews, friends and extended family.
Following in his father's footsteps, Garry took over the family farm in Harwich Township, running the farming operations while raising his young family.
Later in life, he and Dorothy moved to town, where they made a circle of new friends in their condominium community.
Garry was known for his ability to fix or build anything, and was always willing to help family and others when needed. His creativity came through in many forms: woodworking projects, metal sculptures, and treasured gifts specially designed and made for his grandchildren. In his later years, Garry found joy in baking cookies and muffins, which he shared with his church community, neighbours and the staff of St. Andrew's Residence.
The family would like to thank the palliative care team who cared for Garry with such compassion.
Family will receive friends at McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Friday, May 16th from 2-4pm and 7-9pm.
A Memorial Service will be held at the Funeral Home on Saturday, May 17th at 11am. Burial to follow in Botany Cemetery.
In memory of Garry, donations can be made to the Thames Christian Fellowship Church or Meals on Wheels Chatham.
Online condolences may be left at http://www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com
McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040
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