Obituary of Gary O'Rourke
O'Rourke: Gary Joseph
Peacefully, holding his wife's hand and surrounded by his friends John and Linda, Gary O'Rourke passed away at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance on July 8, 2024 at the age of 73.
Born in Chatham, Gary was the son of the late Jim and Angela (née Zimmer) O'Rourke.
Beloved husband of Kelly St. Pierre (Hall).
Father of Richard (Colleen) O'Rourke, Colleen Woodrow, and Step-father of John St. Pierre.
Grandfather of Aidan, Carter, Reid, and Ari (Hunter).
Brother to Marilyn Chauvin (late Lornie), Margaret Regnier (late Leo), Kathleen Eagleson, Don (Jean), Tom (Michelle), David, and Suzanne Warner (Clarke). Predeceased by brother Rick.
Gary will be missed by many nieces, nephews, and friends, especially John and Linda, Luc and Donna, and Jeff and Latoya. Gary was a lover of animals and volunteered for many years with PAWR. He also loved woodworking, boating, fishing, and camping. Over the years, Gary worked in many local factories, retiring from ServiceMaster.
Gary was proud to be an organ donor and was also able to donate his pacemaker to a local veterinary clinic for assisting with an animal's heart.
Gary cared about those in need. Donations may be made to Pet and Wildlife Rescue, Hope Haven, Outreach for Hunger, or a charity of your choice.
As per Gary's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held on August 17, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Pet and Wildlife Rescue, 405 Park Avenue East, Chatham.
Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com
McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040
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Ridgetown: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-397
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Nathan McKinlay is in charge of day-to-day operations in Chatham.
Jeff Mardling is in charge of day-to-day operations in Blenheim & Ridgetown.
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