In loving memory of Gary Melford Biggs: Caring husband, amazing father, loving sibling, and great friend. Gary passed away peacefully on June 4th, 2026, at Brandt’s Creek Mews at the age of 74 after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s. He was a friendly and kind soul and remained as such throughout the progression of his illness.
Gary is survived by his wife Donna; children Eric (Amanda) and Laura (Rob) from his marriage to Nela Biggs; sister Lynda (Don) Boyle; and numerous other family and friends. He was predeceased by his eldest sister Arlene Buck and her husband Gale.
Gary was born and raised in Nanaimo, BC and was extremely proud of his family heritage in this area. His parents, Mel and Bessie Biggs, raised him to be connected with the ocean, and he spent much of his childhood at the family cabin in what is now Neck Point Park. His two older sisters tried their best to keep him in line in his younger years.
He was a banker for most of his working life and was active in serving his community as a Rotarian. His career eventually moved him off the Island to the Lower Mainland, then to Vernon, and finally to Kelowna, where he settled and eventually met Donna, marrying in 2011.
Gary was especially content when on the golf course, trying his best to tame his relentless slice. He was a presence, and his laughter was contagious, often driven by his love of puns and other corny jokes. In his later years, he was devoted as a husband to Donna and dog-father to Brandi and Roxi. He remained active, travelling, walking the dogs, puttering in the yard, bottling wine, and keeping the car looking like new.
His family would like to extend gratitude to the teams at Brandt’s Creek Mews and Spring Valley Care Centre for their kind and compassionate support throughout his journey.
