Gary passed away peacefully at home on January 13, 2024 with his wife and soulmate of 33 years, Marie Petrie-Caslick, at his side. He leaves behind his children Darren Petrie (Becky), Donna
Petrie (Sebastian) and his chosen daughter Jody Core-Douglas, as well as grandsons Derek Petrie (Taylor) and Joshua Petrie (Olivia) and his chosen granddaughter Jaclyn Core (Kieran).
He will be lovingly remembered by the VanEek, Riehl, Satchell and Caslick families.
Gary was a sweet man with a thoughtful disposition and a passion for music, history and storytelling.
Gary loved listening to music and telling stories about the songs playing in the background during visits with him. During his life, he amassed an extensive collection of music and memorabilia of his idol, Johnny Cash, and we all smile knowing that he and Johnny are deep in conversation right now.
Gary was also an avid collector of everything Civil War and had a clear memory and fascinating story about each piece he lovingly collected.
In his later years, Gary became more reflective and spent many hours writing poetry and sharing his personal thoughts with friends and family. If you were lucky enough to receive one of Gary’s poems, you’d see the time and effort spent not only on the words he carefully chose, but in the way the poem was crafted on paper...hand drawn, with the greatest love and care.
Gary also loved baseball, although was most likely to watch just those games featuring his beloved Chicago Cubs or Cleveland teams playing.
Most of all, Gary loved his “Murphy” (Marie). His love for her was unparalleled and you should count yourself blessed if you were able to witness his love and adoration for her firsthand.
We will cherish the stories, the poetry and the thoughtful, kind and calm demeanour that Gary brought into our lives, and we take great comfort in knowing that he is resting comfortably and at peace.
Gary wanted to thank all of his friends who were with him on his journey, as well as the caregivers and Murphy - his wife, nurse, friend and special angel.
A celebration of Gary’s life will be held in the Reception Centre of the W.G. Young Funeral Home, 430 Huron Street, Stratford on Saturday, January 20, 2024 from 2-5 p.m. with words of remembrance at 3:30 p.m.
Memorial donations may be made to Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth through the link provided below, or to the Stratford Youth Soccer program (in honour of Derek Petrie) cheque through the funeral home at W.G. Young Funeral Home, 430 Huron Street Stratford ON N5A 5T7 www.wgyoungfuneralhome.com
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary, please visit our floral store.
