Gary was born on September 6, 1931, in Powell River, BC, and passed away peacefully on December 20, 2023 at Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria, BC. He was predeceased by his parents, William and Blanche, and daughter, Susan. He is survived by his beloved wife, Margot; daughter, Alison (Rob); son, Graham (Erika), and grandchildren, Grant, Lynden, and Heath. After a brief stay in hospital, Dad left us peacefully with his family by his side. He had been surrounded by family in his final days and he knew how very loved, valued and respected he was. We are all so proud of our Dad and grateful for the care he received.
Dad grew up in Powell River and treasured memories of living on the Sunshine Coast, exploring many areas, including his beloved Savary Island. Savary summers included fishing and family time with Bill, Al, Stewart, Jack, Ann, Bert, Kay, Lillian, Gail, and many friends. Dad travelled back to Savary each year, well into his 80’s. As a teenager he spent several summers as a lifeguard on the beaches of the Sunshine Coast and enjoyed swimming, fishing and playing several sports. Dad excelled at school and athletics, winning numerous awards along the way to the University of British Columbia, where he shined as both a scholar and athlete. He played varsity football and basketball at the University of BC, and often mentioned his football coach Don Coryell, who later became the head coach of the San Diego Chargers. He enjoyed all that university life had to offer, including meeting Margot, who together celebrated 67 years of marriage this year. While at UBC he made lifelong friends to whom he remained connected and looked forward to seeing frequently. He cherished friendships with Kay and Ian Mair, Ken MacKay and Sally, Evan and Yvonne Oakley, Dave Jones, Jack and Nancy Shipley, George and Yvonne Bolt, Bill and Gloria Garner, Ron and Sonia McLeod, George and Marion Andrews, Don and Jill Horwood and so many others. Dad also enjoyed many years of golf at Uplands Golf Club with great friends. The annual schooly-plumber golf tournament was full of chirping, some good golf and many laughs.
After university Gary found his calling as an educator, school administrator, coach, and community builder. He started teaching at Oak Bay Secondary in 1956. He was a great advocate for students and knew how important educators are in supporting youth to achieve their goals. He coached the Oak Bay basketball team in the 1960s and his teams won 6 Island Championships and 2 provincial titles in 1965 and 1968. He cherished the relationships he had with his players. Gary was incredibly grateful when the Oak Bay basketball court was named in his honour in 2015. He also coached championship track and field and swimming teams at Oak Bay. Gary became the vice principal at Lansdowne in 1970, principal of Cedar Hill in 1976, and retired as principal of Lambrick Park in 1990. Gary’s friendship with Roy Henry Vickers resulted in a First Nations Art Display at Cedar Hill Secondary, one of the first school art displays of its kind. Gary realized the importance of sports, music, and the arts in supporting youth and connecting cultures. His incredible impact on his students, teachers, and community lasted for 35 years.
Gary’s volunteering stretched far and wide. He was vice-Chair of the 1994 Victoria Commonwealth Games. In 1970 the University of Victoria asked him to volunteer coach the Varsity basketball team. After 5 winning seasons and a Canada West title, Gary knew the University required paid coaches if their athletic program was to compete across Canada. Gary successfully advocated the University administration to formalize the athletics program by having paid varsity coaching positions. His achievement paved the way for the Vikes’ national championship success that has occurred over the past 50 years. Gary was inducted into the Oak Bay Secondary Hall of Fame, Victoria Sports Hall of Fame and the BC Basketball Hall of Fame.
Dad lived an active and full life. Despite vision complications in his later years, he remained sharp minded and continued to enjoy a quality of life that many could not, including many hours cultivating his beautiful flower gardens. We will miss our Dad immensely but are grateful for the example he set for us in living a life with purpose, dignity and humour. The world is a far better place because of him and the impact he had on his family and community will continue to be felt for generations.
A Celebration of Gary’s Life will be held at Uplands Golf Club, 3300 Cadboro Bay Road, on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, from 2:00-4:00 pm.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Neil and Vicki coutts
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Mark Smith I often thought I was the only person in my PE class. To say I was chubby was an understatement – the other kids called me “Jelly Belly” – and each time I found PE on my schedule for the day I was filled with dread.
Your dad changed all that. Standing out on the street a block from the school, cheering me on as I brought up the rear of our one-mile run; working me with until I overcame my fear of heights enough to climb the rope to the top; telling me my size was a virtue as he dropped me in to anchor the scrum; getting me to vault, and tumble, and many other things.
Then, at the end of the term, he gave me an ‘A’ on my report card. I asked him why, when we had people like Bruce and Darrel Howe (Gordie’s nephews) as standout athletes in the same class, I got that mark. He said, “Because you TRIED”.
Gary Taylor was a life-altering teacher. I’m so grateful he came into my life, and even today, 57 years later, I feel his warmth and see the grin.
Thank you to the entire family for sharing him with us all.
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Daphne Goode I only just heard about Gary’s passing. My condolences to his family and friends. I was so incredibly inspired by Gary as a student at Oak Bay High in the 1960’s..he truly shone in his caring and genuine interest in young people. His leadership in sports and gymnastics lit a fire in me for track and field and long lasting gym and athletics activities. Apart from a bashed up calf due to rigorous games of grass hockey and basketball, my memories are all golden, as Gary was one of the most enthusiastic and caring teachers I ever had in my life. I thought of him many times after graduating from Oak Bay High School. RIP Gary…you will be treasured in my memory!
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Dave Mulcahy I had the rare honour of playing against Coach Gary Taylor in the late 60’s, and for him during his years at UVIC in the early 70’s.
I fondly remember his unbridled enthusiasm during all practices and every game coaching the Vikings. He donated his time and energy as an unpaid coach and managed to create a Conference Champion. His interest in each and every player on that team was incredible and I thank him for being such a great mentor to us.
Now, if you multiply that by all the teams he coached over the years you will clearly see the impact he had on so many players, all their parents, all the teachers, and all the students who enjoyed supporting any team he coached. He was a great coach and an even greater person who I will always remember.
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Bob McLaren As many have noted, Gary had an outsized influence on so many lives including my own. His enthusiasm and joy as a coach and genuine good guy was inspiring. Gary was my PE teacher at Oak Bay in the early 60’s and I was also fortunate to be part of his formidable 1963 Track team. Many fond memories. RIP Gary
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Bob & Joette Burrows My relationship with Gary began in 1963, which included his role as a mentor, teacher, and coach, most notably in 1965 when he won his first provincial championship.
Throughout the years, we remained in touch, with coach dropping by on Christmas Eve with Margo, after their dinner at the Chinese Village. Fun times.
Joette and I send our heartfelt condolences to the family. I feel privileged that Gary played such an integral part in my development, and I will always remember Gary as the epitome of the word “class”
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Cathy CLACKSON (Bryan) Many fond memories of Mr. Taylor. Landsdowne was a force with him at the helm! My brother Wayne was coached by him! We enjoyed the success of Oak Bay!
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Robert Wall Gary was my PE teacher at Lansdowne Junior High in 1957 and also at Oak Bay High in 1962. I taught his daughter at Willows in Grade 5 & 7 and he was so supportive of me during the start of my career as a first year teacher and later when I moved into Admin. He was one of the finest men I knew and his legacy as a teacher, Administrator, gentleman and parent will never be forgotten by me. I am so fortunate to have had the chanced to have met such a fine man in my life. Robert Wall
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Jim Crawford As a 1961 to 1964 student at Oak Bay High, who purported to be a “jock”, I found there was no way to ignore Garry’s impact on Oak Bay High. I played soccer, rugby and worked hard at track and field events, so I was not a basketball player of much consequence. This however did not stop me from drawing inspiration and motivation from Garry to do my very best always to represent OBHS. Garry had to fill in as rugby Coach one year and guess what, he made us step up and be counted.
While I was more or less a utility player on the 1963, track and field team, I was thrilled to see Garry’s team, win what was essentially a BC championship at UBC. Remember the likes of Bob McLaren, Rick Humber, Rick Higgins, John Edwards and others. Garry made the athletes work as a team and the results were spectacular . Garry, as usaual credited the athletes but we all know what made it happen.
While being an exceptional coach, I have to state he was really an exceptional person who knew how to draw the best out of us.
Here we form life long connections and respect for what we can accomplish to together. Chemists may call it a catalyst. I call it the Garry Taylor influence.
He helped all of us be better as athletes, people and many of us as teachers and coaches trying to follow his example.
Our sincere sympathies and thanks to the family for sharing him
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Bill Bell Like others, Gary had an immense and positive impact on my life. He inspired and guided me to do my best and feel special in various sports which crossed over to academics and life in general. Definitely one-of-a-kind! RIP Gary.
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Charlotte Harvey Mr Taylor was my first Principal as a young teacher in Victoria, BC. I was so honoured to be in his presence. He was a true gentleman, always leading with warmth and kindness.
I know many of his former students and staff will remember this great man.
Sincerely
Charlotte Harvey
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Elizabeth Forbes Gary Taylor was a breath of fresh air when he arrived at OBHS. Great energy and made each one of us feel valued. I was a 1956 grad and not into sports but he still had an impact. We welcomed him to our 50th class reunion at the yacht club.
A life well lived.
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Linda Birdsall Gary Taylor was an amazing Principal at Lambrick Secondary School.
He was a very kind, thoughtful and practical man who had the respect of students, teachers and parents.
He was particularly helpful to my son and me when my husband was ill and died.
He continued to support us throughout my son’s high school years for which I was most grateful.
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Paula McDonald As a parent of two Lambrick Park students I cannot fully express my gratitude for Mr. Taylor’s guiding hand during their time together there.
My sincere condolences to his family.
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Donna Chapman (Walton) You were a new teacher when you came to Oak Bay and we all adored you. Thank you for all you did for students!!
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Mike Whately I remember “Mr. Taylor” so well. Of all the teachers I had at OB from ‘59 through ‘62, he was one of the very best. My school sport was rugby; Gary coached basketball and swimming, among others. I always wished he was our coach- I think we would have done much better! After graduation, my post-secondary education and career took me away from Victoria, and I lost contact with OBHS. On a whim, I decided to attend the 40th anniversary (reunion) of our grad class, and who was the honoured guest? Gary Taylor! And he remembered me! Made my day – RIP Gary
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Richard Sparks Gary was a huge part of my life as a mentor and coach. His first year at Oak Bay was 1956 and I was in 10E, his home room, an all boys class. He was so admired as a coach, teacher, and gentleman. RIP and thank you Garfield. Richard Sparks 1958 Grad.
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Charlaine (Mahy) Robinson I agree wholeheartedly with ALL the messages submitted. I am grateful to have had Mr. Taylor as our Principal and basketball coach at Cedar Hill Junior from 1978 to 1981. We won the Island Championship because of his strengths as a coach and leader. Mr. Taylor would greet students by name as they arrived at school and would often comment on the student’s positive attributes. Mr. Taylor, thank you for being an exemplary role model.
My sincere condolences to his family, friends and those blessed to have known Mr. Gary Taylor.
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Linda Robertson You will be missed Mr Taylor, thank you for the best years at OBSS, 1969
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Susan McGorman (Denny) Wonderful memories of a special teacher and coach at Oak Bay High.
A life well lived! Well done.
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Jack Showers I am so sorry to hear this news. I always aspired to be just like Gary. He was my hero and remains my hero to this day.
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Margaret I went to Lambrick Park because he was Principal there. His reputation for being involved, engaged and caring was well deserved. I’ve often wondered how he went after retirement and am glad to hear he had a good life. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.
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Janice Hemming Margot, Graham and Alison. So many great memories of a Wonderful gentleman who inspired all of us to be the best we could. A mentor, always smiling; and a coach with a great sense of humor. I will never forget his kindness and encouragement as my track coach at Oak Bay. Sincere condolences to all of you.
Janice (Hall) Hemming, Class of 66.
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Susan I have very fond memories of Mr Taylor while I was in school. He was always smiling and upbeat with the students. One of a kind for sure! My condolences to the family.
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Bruce Gillespie An inspirational uncle and coach, his enthusiasm helped shape key aspects of my life. What a life he lived, inspiring so many to reach new achievements in their lives. My deepest condolences to Margot, Alison and Graham.
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Kelly Fafard He was an amazing principal at Lambrick Park. Such an inspiration, lead by example and always had time for you. One of a kind.
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Dory Gutierrez (Morgan) Mr. Taylor was the principal when I was at Cedar Hill, I still remember that he always kind, had a positive attitude, a big smile on his face and would sing as he walked through the halls. Some of us students didn’t always appreciate it especially early in the morning but he is the only principal that I still remember and he was my favourite principal. My condolences and prayers to his family and friends. Rest in Peace Mr. Taylor.
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Howard Tweed They don’t make great teachers and coaches like this anymore . To say nothing of a great person that he was . He never had a bad word to say about anyone . RIP Mr.{T} . You will be greatly missed .
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Donna Very fond memories of Mr. Taylor in the halls at Cedar Hill Junior High. He was watering the plants and making amazing connections with students. What a rich and full life!!! Condolences to the family.
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Ed Fougner My condolences to Margot and family. Gary was a long time friend going back to his Powell River days, then at UBC, and as a basketball and Track and Field coach. What a wonderful example Gary was to so many student athletes over the years. He touched and influenced so many young people. Rest in Peace my friend.
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Tom Tucker I was lucky enough to have Mr. Taylor as my principle at Cedar Hill, he brought a positive force to the school and that rubbed off on the students and staff. He was an honest and great communicator. My condolences to his family, friends and past students that had the pleasure of being in his presence.
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Rhonda (Shave) Anstett I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Taylor was an amazing principal at Cedar Hill Junior Secondary. I was there from 1978 – 1981.
He always had a smile. You will be missed Mr. Taylor.
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Gareth Rees Thoughts are with Graham and the family. Rest assured his legacy is immense and the opportunity and guidance he has provided for generations of young people is something we can all strive for! RIP
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John Lund Thank you Gary for some of my most memorable moments at Oak Bay High School. You were an inspirational coach in both sports and life. Again, thank you.
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Richard Goodall, Class of 1960 Well done Gary.
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Rebecca Fontaine What an incredible rich life. Gary’s charisma, care, class and dedication were some of my favourite qualities he held. I have such fond memories of his energy and passion as our principal. He began at Lambrick Park the year I started high school and retired my graduation year. We were so fortunate to have such an awesome leader for our school. I admired him so.
I’m so sorry for your family’s loss and hope you find many comforts in the warm and wonderful memories you hold, as well as all the amazing legacy he has left for you. Much love to you all.
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Ed Norman Thank you, Mr. Taylor.
Ed Norman, OBSS 1966
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don and daphne duddridge Although the coach of the ‘hated’ Oak Bay Bays, Gary was such a great and friendly man to everyone who got to know him. My younger brother was privileged to play for him at UVIC and enjoy his work leading to the great success those teams have enjoyed. He also became a very good friend of our parents and always treated our Mother like ‘royalty’ when he met her at BB games around town. We are sorry to see him go but count ourselves lucky to have known such a wonderful person who made the world a better place every day simply by being a part of it!
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Brian Lennox What an incredible legacy he left on the city of Victoria as an educator, coach, and volunteer.
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Michael Gains Gary’s contributions and impact on High School and University Men’s Basketball programs in Victoria will never be forgotten. My condolences to his family and friends. RIP Garfield.
I had the privilege of being a physical education instructor at Lambrick Park when Gary was principal. Not only was Gail a wonderful man, but he was a great educator principal and coach supported me and everyone else in the school. One of my fondest memories of Gary was when I senior boys volleyball team was playing in the BC Championships at the Ballas Secondary and Parksville. Gary and Margo travel to Parksville cheers us on for three hours of an exciting match. We were able to win in the fifth set. I do not think that too many principles would’ve travelled all that way to watch a volleyball match when he was so into basketball. OK, I was very sad that I could not attend his memorial service at the Upland golf course as I had a dentist appointment at the same time. I will miss his Christmas card. Gary will be missed by everyone