ALDERSON, Gary Alderson

Gary passed away peacefully in his sleep at Erie Shores Hospice at the age of 72 years, after a brief battle with cancer. Gary will be dearly missed by his wife of 47 years Marlene (Wagner) and his son Evan (Rosemary). Beloved grandpa to Marielle (age 3). Gary also leaves behind three siblings: Carol Gadal (Don), Allan (Ann) and Jeff, and many nieces and nephews. Gary is predeceased by his father, Gordon, and his mother, Helen.

Gary’s boyhood dream was to become a lawyer. He graduated law school at Queen’s University and returned to practice law in Port Colborne for 10 years before moving to Leamington where he joined the law firm Pearsall and Marshall.

Gary’s passion throughout his adult life was golf. He played several days a week and was a longtime member of Erie Shores Golf Course, where he helped to run the Monday and Tuesday men’s leagues for many years. He enjoyed spending time with many friends out on the links.

Gary was also an active member of the Leamington Kinsmen, and assisted with many fundraising projects. Tomato Fest was always a highlight. Later, Marlene and Gary joined the Leamington K40 club and attended many social events with other longtime Kinsmen and Kinettes.

Frequent visits to Gary and Marlene’s extended families in the Niagara region, where both grew up, were eagerly anticipated. Christmas with family was always a special time.

After retiring, Gary became a passionate gardener, spending countless hours tending his perennials and even caring for both neighbours’ lawns and gardens. Gary was overjoyed when the town’s Community in Blooms group recognized his efforts.

Gary grew up playing baseball, hockey and football. He also enjoyed watching professional sports on TV and never cheered for a particular team although if pressed would say Chicago Blackhawks were a favourite. Gary was a goalie, and when Evan followed in his footsteps Gary was thrilled to pass on his knowledge of the position, as both coach and parent. Gary and Marlene loved watching Evan’s games… hockey, baseball, soccer… and enjoyed socializing with the other parents. Another favourite activity was bowling and Gary played in many leagues over the years.

Gary’s son, Evan, moved to Ottawa to begin his career teaching high school math, and soon met Rosemary (also a high school teacher). Gary and Marlene loved spending time with them. Frequent visits to Ottawa followed, as Evan and Rosemary married in 2021 and became proud parents of Marielle in 2022. Rosemary’s parents Doug and Mary Ellen would often join in the good times, sharing memories and lively conversations.

As per Gary’s request, cremation has occurred. Visitation will be held at Reid Funeral home in Leamington on Sunday December 14, from 1-5pm. Funeral service (live streamed), visitation and reception to be held at Tallman’s Funeral Home in Vineland on Tuesday December 16 beginning at 11am. Interment at Mount Osborne Cemetery in Beamsville.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to Erie Shores Hospice or Canadian Mental Health Association. The family would like to extend sincere thanks to the staff at Erie Shores Hospice, Erie Shores Hospital, and the Windsor Regional Hospital and Cancer Clinic.