With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Garry L. Elander, a.k.a. “Big Swede,” on November 24, 2018. He was the youngest of a family of 13. Predeceased by his mother Anna Theresa; father Knut Gunnar; brothers Conrad, Edward, Henry, Ross, Roger, John (J.J); and sisters Edith Overland, Hilda Clark, Helen Bell, Mary Ryer, Karen McFadden.
He is survived by his wife Patti, son Gary Jr (daughter-in-law Caitlin Bird), grandson Coleton John, stepson Rick Long and family, and sister Doris Lewis. He was a loyal loving husband, father, brother, uncle, friend and a big heart for his grandson Coleton and his many special nieces and nephews. Let’s just say he was a “big bundle of love, joy, and laughter.”
Garry worked as a logger/truck driver, a lineman on power line construction for BC Hydro, and ended his career at the City of Victoria in the electrical division retiring after 25 years.
Our appreciation to Dr. Domke, providers and staff at Oak Bay Lodge and The Heights at Mt. View, they were God sent.
A family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Garry requested that donation be made to the homeless population at the place of your choice.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Colleen Williams
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Mary Burgaretta Dear Patti, so sorry for your loss of Garry, a good man. Thinking of you, Gary Jr, Caitlin and your grandson at this sad time.
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Karolyn Sanderson (Karol) Dear Patti,
So sorry to read about Garry, I remember him from Esquimalt Hockey and Victoria Stroke Recovery Association. You have been his caregiver for a long time, making sure he had everything he needed, never complaining. When he used to come to Victoria Stroke recovery, he seemed to enjoy it and we with him. It’s been a long road and we are wishing him some peace now and no pain. For you the same Patti. Take care.
Karol Sanderson
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Tom & Sandy James My memories of Gary go way back to growing up on Lockley Rd. in Esquimalt . Gary was always such a kind fun loving guy who had a smile for everyone. Our thoughts and condolences are with Patti, (Little) Gary and family at this sad time. Sandy & Tom James
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Phil Williams My condolences goes our to my sister Pat, nephew Gary jr for your lost of a great man. I will always remember Gary as a fun loving man who always liked to make funny jokes and make people laugh and smile. Gary will always be in my heart and will be missed very much. RIP you Big Swede. Nancy and Brandon sending hugs, and prayers to all his family, and miss him dearly.
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Lynne and Gary Laidlaw We enjoyed our years as a hockey family in Saanich and Racquet Club. Garry was always a fun loving guy. Young Gary you were a great son looking after him.
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Maggie Gardiner Deepest sympathy to all family members, especially Patti, Gary, Caitlin and Coleton. Keep your precious memories close to your heart. Maggie Gardiner and family ❤️
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Elaine Lloyd My condolences on your loss.
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Margery Loverin My deepest condolences to Patti and her family for the loss of Gary. Gary was a good friend and I’m sorry to hear he is gone. R.I.P Gary.!!! <3
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Sue-Anne Carter My deepest and sincere condolences to Gary and your family. Your Dad and I had a special Scandinavian connection amd we always joked I could be his long lost Swedish daughter. I am grateful he will now Rest In Peace.
Borta bra men hemma bäst.
Away is good but home is best
Swedish Proverb
With love, Sue-Anne Carter
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Bill and Angie Van Buskirk We are grateful to have known him in this world.
We are all but one winged creatures and only thru embrace shall we experience flight.
Garry had certainly left his mark here by embracing his family and friends and no doubt had earned his other wing to soar high on his next journey. Our condolences..
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Alexandra Scott My sincere condolences to the whole family. My thoughts are with you during this hard time.
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David McLean Patti and Gary I’m so sorry for your loss. Gary was a great man with a heart as big as he was. It was a pleasure to have known the three of you.
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Kari Bennett I loved Uncle Garry my entire life. My dad considered him his best friend since they were teenagers and I know he was waiting for Garry when he passed over. I will miss him.
Kari Bennett (Morgan)
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Tracey Campbell I am so sorry to hear of Garry’s passing. Sending my love and condolences to Patti, Gary and Coleton.
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Joanne Hiscock Uncle Gary my heart is truly broken
You have been a huge part of my life since I was born
The only peace I find is knowing and believing you are in good company with most of your family
Not many leave this place having been such a good husband-uncle-friend to so many
Loved you then – now – and forever
Joanne and Bert Hiscock
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Harold and Lori Dear Steve, Meagan and family. We know how much your Uncle Gary meant to you. May he RIP, our most sincere condolences.
My a heart goes out to those left behind, may you rest in peace. Enjoy fishing on Atlin Lake, watching sunrise and rainbows. We will meet again on the other side at the bridge. Words will never be enough to say the love of life which you had for family and friends.