Gary, Gary do not know where to begin, so sad to see you pass away so early in life. We were best friends since grade school sure we fought, but we were best friends again by the next day. It was so sad that during our lives we drifted a part like so many friendships do, but through my life I would always talk proud about you with my friends and family. Not a day goes by now that I do not think of you and Donna. I wish I could turn back the hands of time so we could have spent more time together, so I could get to know your children better. They all seem to have taken after your morals in life. I am still having trouble getting over you death, but I know you are up in heaven with your Dad looking down on your family, that would be the only bright side I can see. I will miss you and your father every day that I'm alive. Until we meet again, rest in peace buddy, looking forward to meeting you again....

It has been just over a month since my Father passed away. It has been hard to put into words what a world with out him means to all of us. With the short time that has elapsed, I now know the journey has just begun. Navigating life has a whole new meaning, and the road map is for me to draft. 

I thought it was appropriate to share the words and reflections of my siblings and myself. This was spoken at his celebration of life (funeral if you want to call it that ..) by Fire Department Chaplain Mike Zenker. 

For many people Gary Mann was known as a  fellow firefighter, G Mann, Captain, Acting Platoon Chief, A deputy Chief and finally as Intern Chief. He gave so much to others; asking for nothing in return. He worked long hours for example writing hazmat manuals; changing and building of the Kitchener fire department one brick at a time. The work day did not start at nine and end at five. Gary was the first one there often before 8 am and would stay long past five. He would work through his breaks, brought work home, and would often lay awake wondering what he could do better; how he could make a difference tomorrow; what positivity could he bring to the table? 

Gary Mann was so much more then just a fire Fighter Gary was a plumber, construction worker, electrician, mechanic, wood worker, teacher. you name it Gary Mann could do it. Anything that needed fixing he could do it. Not only would he complete a job in record time, he would do it flawlessly. After 30 years of dedicated service to the Kitchener fire department he left with no regrets. He did everything he could. Gary always took the higher road and kept positive; teaching his children to do the same. Gary Mann being the man he was wanted no party, no recognition for his years of service. He wanted to go quietly. He sat with his grandson and Wife. Cheers said Liam as they held up their cups and clanged their glasses celebrating all his achievements. A new long adventure was supposed to be beginning.  He worked 30 years and gave gave gave to others. it was time to enjoy his family.. Including his wife who stood by him and supported him through out his entire career; giving just as much as he did to the fire department keeping Gary strong; his children and his two grand children who love him dearly. Who's there? called Grandpa   It's Buddah Mann Liam would yell while running excitedly into the house. Megan here too Grandpa, Megan would call. Gary was so in love with his two grandchildren and would do anything for them. Gary always had a smile on his face when those two were around.

Gary Mann is known for being an outstanding Fire Fighter, but for his family he was known for being an amazing husband to Donna, a devoted father to Jeff, Chris, and Terri and the world's best grandpa to Liam and MJ. Gary met his wife in grade six (can you believe that??).. The two grew close and supported each other as they grew up. At first Gary would tell other people Donna was his cousin just so he could hang around with her all the time. Truth was Gary knew Donna was something special and would not be letting her get away. He didn't even flinch when Donna's Dad Frank Paddon yelled at him, Don't come back if you're going to drive like that.  Dad screeched his tires all the way up the hill out of sight; he adjusted his driving and came back the next day. Nope nothing was going to scare Gary away. They are an extraordinary couple and they beat all the odds. They made the roller coaster we call life look easy. 

A Message from his Daughter Terri

I still don't have the words to express how I am feeling. My dad was an amazing man. He taught me to work hard, always put my best foot forward and never give up. Oh and to never call in sick... 30 years of service and my father had only used one sick day. He taught me to set goals and meet them and he always believed in me and supported me through the ups the downs and in-betweens. At a young age he taught me to ride a two wheeler bicycle. I fell down and scraped my knee. "I'm done, I'm done lets go home," I said. "Terri you can do this, get back on, he said. I fell off again and again. Dad insisted I keep getting back on. I did, and rode that two wheeler home that day, bloody knee, scraped elbow but a huge smile on my face. My dad taught me to work hard, never give up and always get on the bike even if it's hard. Try and try again you will succeed. I always will get on that red bicycle dad and think of you every time. But for now I am not getting on the bicycle I just need to stand still.  

For me dad was always the source of stability, confidence and family warmth. Dad gave me the feeling of assurance, for I knew he would always stand for me and love me as his daughter, no matter what happened. At my wedding I thanked my mom and dad for being my two strong pillars of support. For always believing in me and instilling in me the confidence that I could do anything. I'm not sure what I will do now that one pillar has fallen but Dad knows I am going to carry you everywhere I go. You will see those grandchildren of yours grow and make difference in this world just like you (maybe just from a different view and not the one I attended.  I will strive to be a difference maker each and every day to bring positivity. You always said to me can you say that in a positive way, I am not sure how to be positive about you being gone but know I love you dad and will try to be the daughter you raised me to be. I will try to be the source of stability, confidence, and family warmth you were for me.



A message from his Son Chris

My earliest memory of my Dad is the smell of smoke on his uniform as I would run to welcome him home from one of his shifts. Dad you were an amazing father and a truly selfless family man. I have emulated you my entire life and always looked up to you the same way Liam does. ; As someone that is invincible and can fix anything. Today feels even harder for me as I am not only losing my Dad, I am saying goodbye to my best friend. I cherished every moment we spent together; meeting for coffee multiple times every week, our monthly movie dates (as long as something good was playing in the theatre) and the countless days we spent together building and renovating our family homes. 

Its been said that  A boy never really becomes a man until he's buried his father and I now understand this saying, I feel like the weight you were carrying has been transferred to my shoulders and I am terrified that I will not be able to support it. Thank you Dad for providing me with the best life any son could have ever imagined. You will always be my hero and my best friend. 


A Message from Gary's son Jeff

Over the last number of years Dad and I have been greeting each other in our own way, Dad would say H E L L O  J E F F E R Y with a smile; and with a pause I always responded H E L L O   F A T H ER  We would both chuckle. This was not exclusive to just us, once it stuck, Mother got the same affection. It became so evident when my nephew Liam stopped calling me Uncle and started greeting me with J E F F E R Y, the exact same way his grandpa did. 

I had the great opportunity this summer to reverse roles and chaperone a date for parents to the Faith Hill and Tim McGraw concert downtown Toronto. Mom and Dad met Dianna and I at our place for a small treat and a visit before we ventured downtown. I insisted I drive, even though Father though it was imposition. I dropped the teenagers off at the gate on Bay and Lakeshore with time to spare. Dad used the imaginary passenger brake a few times. I headed to the office for a few hours to get caught up on paperwork. I did not get much done. Mom and Dad were texting me selfies and show pictures the whole time. Like the other parents I came back and waited for them to leave the concert. I got back downtown about an hour before Encore and found the best parking spot with the easiest directions to share so they could meet me. As the concert exited I spent the whole time with my eyes peeled to make sure we did not miss them. I made sure they exited the building near the stage door so they might have the chance to see Tim and Faith enter the coach to depart the concert.

I have many memories of my father, let me share the ones that will continue to make me smile and might be worth a chuckle

•Dad made sure he taught the skills required in life to be self sufficient. I remember dad teaching me the basics of electricity when he added hydro to the back shed. Dad lectured me on the basics of polarity and grounding. As he was teaching me how to strip the wires to go into the junction box he stopped and told me the importance of making sure the power was off. I understood and he proceeded to snip the wire. Well guess what  the power was not. We paused just after the Blue Arc. He looked at me; I at him with another short pause. .. Dad said  And that's what happens when you don't make sure the power is off I don't know If he said it, but I knew this one of those  don't tell Mom moments

•When I was young I had to be just like Dad. Back then Kitchener Fire Fighters wore powder Blue Dress shirt and ties to work. Mom made sure I had just the same as dad. Mom would let me know when dad was expected home and I ran down the drive and wait at the side as dad drove up the Hill. 

•Being the oldest, I was the first to move out, and did I ever take that to the full extent. I had a lot of adventures, moments to learn from, travelled all over, lived on the road as they call it, but always in a leadership role. I'll never forget Jeffery you are not a follower  Always be a leader Ultimately about 6 years ago I ended in a management role in a municipality just like Dad. My mom told me Dad was so proud I was hired onto the city; had a pension, and he no longer had to worry. Something he never told me. Since my father's retirement and my changing professional roles; Dad shared his wisdom, experiences and knowledge with me. Who knew Dad would be calming and advising me the night before my first in camera presentation to the Board. I was so nervous that morning at City Hall, overwhelmed. I took a moment, collected my thoughts, laid out my notes and told my self, Dad can do it, so can I. 
•Dad is truly everything to all three of his children, a passionate teacher like his daughter, A career fire fighter like his son, a respected management member like his oldest  son, who cares for everyone on the job to make it just a little better in the world. 

Dad often said we should all pinch ourselves, to be so lucky 

My final conversation with Dad before he passed on FaceTime; How cool is FaceTime was Friday night. It ended with the sign off 
G O O D N I G H T   F A T H E R 
G O O D N I G H T   J E F F E R Y


We three kids have always looked up to our dad ..When we too were just Liam and MJ's size ..They still do and always will. You dad were the best example of a father.... always being there no matter what.... family first. We are so proud to have had you as our dad.... and grandpa to Liam and MJ (shoes that can never be filled).. Time was cut short and it doesn't seem fair and we will never understand. Thank you doesn't seem like enough for everything you have done for us kids ..Big and small. I don't know how we are going to do this thing we call life with out you.

In order to honor Gary the family and friends ask that you not take for granted the precious time that you have with family and friends. They ask that after you leave today you try to make one positive change in your life in his memory; whatever that may be for you.  As the Gary we all know would want something positive to come from this tragedy.

THANK YOU FRIENDS, FAMILY & OUR FIRE FAMILY FOR ALL THE LOVE AND SUPPORT DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME.

Saddened my heart to hear this. I can hardly believe it, my old neighbour and hockey buddy.

Ted Stocks

Uncle Gary, an incredible guy who made an impact on many people's lives. I have fond childhood memories wrestling with him at Grandma's and Grandpa's where we gathered for Sunday dinners. Uncle Gary always made time for those around him and was all in with whatever was going on. Although soft spoken and infectious energy and laugh that always livened up a room. 

As the oldest nephew, I had a unique opportunity to spend time with Uncle Gary building toys in his workshop and pacing him on my bike while he was training for the fire department. Some very special years for me.

Recently back in Cambridge, and noticed an old wooden car at my parent's house that Uncle Gary had given my brother and I many years ago. It immediately brought a smile to my face and a flood of memories of Uncle Gary. My initial thought was I want that car, but then after further reflection this is where it needs to be. A legacy piece that kids can continue to enjoy for many years to come. 

A great man that will be truly missed.

My deepest symthies on the family..I didn't know him for very long but the time I did was nice to know him and his wife Donna.i hope that the family will remember the happy times together..

Since the beginning of my friendship with Terri, Gary made me feel like a part of the Mann family.  He was always kind to us girls and he was so much fun to be around!  I always looked forward to family events when I knew he would be there.

His love for his family was evident in everything he did; building a playhouse for Liam and Megan, helping his kids in whatever way he could, surprising Donna with a special gift the day of Terri's wedding.  He was the epitome of a family man and a shining example for all of us to follow.

It has been special to be a part of his life, and I know I will be sure to make some positive changes in my life to honor his memory. I feel grateful to have known him and will miss him dearly.

For many people Gary Mann was known as a  fellow firefighter G Mann, a captain, a deputy platoon chief and Chief. He gave so much to others, asking for nothing in return. He worked  long hours for example writing hazmat manuals. changing and building the kitchener fire department one brick at a time. The work day did not start at nine and end at five. Gary was the first one there often before 8 am and would stay long past five. He would work through his break, bring work home, and often lie awake wondering what he could do better, how could he make a difference tomorrow. What positivity could he bring to the table. 

Gary Mann was so much more then just a fire Fighter Gary Mann was a plumber, construction worker, electrician, mechanic, wood worker, teacher. you name it Gary Mann could do it. Anything that needed fixing he could do it. Not only would he complete a job in record time he would do it flawlessly. After 30 years of dedicated service to the kitchener fire department he left with no regrets. He did everything he could. He always took the higher road and kept positive teaching his children to do the same. Gary Mann being the man he was wanted no party, no recognition for his years of service. He wanted to go quietly. He sat with his grandson and Wife. Cheers said Liam as they held up their cups and clanged their glasses celebrating all his achievements. A new long adventure was suppose to be beginning.  He worked 30 years and gave gave gave to others. it was time to enjoy his family.. including his wife who stood by him and supported him through out his entire career (giving just as much as he did to the fire department keeping Gary strong), his children and his two grand children who love him dearly. Hello budah mann, Gary would yell when Liam would run excitedly into the house. Megan here too Grandpa, Megan would call. Gary was in love with his two grandchildren and do anything for them. Gary always had a smile on his face when those two were around.

Gary Mann is known for being an outstanding fireman..but for his family he was known for being an amazing husband to Donna, a devoted father to Jeff, Chris, and Terri and the worlds best grandpa to Liam and Mj. Gary met his wife in grade six (can you believe that).. the two grew close and supported each other as they grew up. At first Gary would tell other people Donna was his cousin just so he could hang around with her all the time. Truth was Gary knew Donna was something special and would not be letting her get away. He didn't even flinch when Donna's Dad Frank paddon yelled at him don't come back if your going to drive like that.  Dad screeched his tires all the way up the hill out of sight, he adjusted his driving and came back the next day. Nope nothing was going to scare Gary away. They are an extraordinary couple and they beat all the odds. They made the rollar coaster we call life look easy. 


 I still don't have the words to express how I am feeling. My dad was an amazing man. He taught me to work hard, always put my best foot forward and never give up. (oh and to never never call in sick... 30 years of service and my father never called in sick)He taught me to set goals and meet them and he always believed in me and supported me through the ups the downs and in-betweens. At a young age he taught me to ride a two wheeler bicycle. I fell down and scraped my knee. "Im done, I'm done lets go home," I said. "Terri you can do this, get back on,"  he said.I fell off again and again. Dad insisted I keep getting back on. I did and rode that two wheeler home that day, bloody knee, scraped elbow but a huge smile on my face. My dad taught me to work hard, never give up and always get on the bike even if its hard. Try and try again you will succeed. I always will get on that red bicycle dad and think of you every time. But for now I am not getting on the bicycle I just need to stand still.  
 

For me (Terri) dad was always the source of stability, confidence and family warmth. Dad gave me the feeling of assurance, for I knew he would always stand for me and love me as his daughter, no matter what happened. At my wedding I thanked  my mom and dad for being my two strong pillars of support. For always believing in me and instilling in me the confidence that I could do anything. Im not sure what I will do now that one pillar has fallen but Dad know i am going to Carry you everywhere I go. You will see those grandchildren of yours grow and make difference in this world just like you (maybe just from a different view and not the one I attended.  I will strive to to be a difference maker each and every day to bring positivity. You always said to me can you say that in a positive way, I am not sure how to be positive about you being gone but know I love you dad and will try to be the daughter you raised me to be. I will try to be the source of stability, confidence, and family warmth you were for me. 

Us there kids have always looked up to dad  ..when we were just Liam and Mjs size ..We still do and always will. You dad were the best example of a father .... always being there no matter what.... family first. We are so proud to have had you as our dad .... and grandpa to Liam and Mj (shoes that can never be filled).. Time was cut short and it doesn't seem fair and I don't understand. Thank you doesn't seem like enough  for everything you have done for us  kids ..big and small. I don't know how we are going to do this thing we call life with out you.

I first and foremost knew Gary as my best friend Terri's dad and her kids Liam and MJs Grandpa. Terri and I bonded quickly in university about our similar upbringings and one of those things was that we were both Daddy's Girls. 

Over the years, Gary always made me feel like family. As one third of "the girls", we got used to coming to different family events and hearing "hey the girls are here!". I also loved hearing Liam tell me stories of all the things he was learning from Grandpa. He already uses tools way better than I'll ever be able to. 

As someone who got into the municipal government world myself, I also had a chance to learn more about Gary the public servant. There wasn't a conference or municipality I went to that didn't know of Gary. 

Thank you Gary for always treating me like family and for setting an example for me of exceptional public service. The girls will miss you.

So lucky to have so many memories. As a young child  I would always ask will Uncle Gary be home when we would come to visit.  Just hearing the name "Uncle Gary" made us excited to go and visit. He made it a priority to laugh and joke with us kids. He had a trick to pick us up by our ears. As little kids we would beg Uncle Gary to lift us up by our ears. Sometimes over and over again. He would never say no, always laugh and made us smile. I can remember swimming all day long at Grandmas house, tired and ready to go home, but as soon we saw Uncle Gary was going swimming, there was no way us kids were going anywhere. We watched as he amazed us with a super cool dive into the pool. Then we all would jump in and take turns getting throw up in the air. Over and over again. I'm sure he was tired, but never showed it.  Just made that awesome laugh he had, and kept entertaining all the kids. I will never forget my Uncle Gary's laugh. As a father now myself, I began to see Uncle Gary as a mentor, roll model and soft spoken friend. I remember studying Chemistry in school and Uncle Gary and I having conversations about Chemicals and him sharing his knowledge with me. I remember impressing the teacher with some practical real world chemical reactions and control measure examples. Thanks to Uncle Gary!
My Uncle Gary was just being himself, but unknowingly he was teaching by example how to be a father, friend, husband, dedicated and truthful. He made a huge impact on me and so many others. I was lucky to call him my Uncle Gary.

G.Mann

I remember starting at the Kitchener Fire Department in June of 1987, and meeting the B-2 Headquarters guys.
Tex. Tavesy, Tommy, Scotty, Killer, Hummer, Schnitz, Dougy, Zurk and G.Mann. 
I was later dubbed, Greg the Hammer by the guys after the WWF wrestler.
Gary often referred to me as Greg the hammer or just  Hammer.

I remember his Blue two door Ford Tempo, how he loved that car and kept it immaculately for many years! He bragged about its power and speed to all who would listen. He would often offer firefighters with trucks  or Subarus a tow or a boost if their vehicle wouldn't start.                  
I remember Gary built wood shelving units for our lockers for me and a number of firefighters.
I remember when Gary's son Jeff was into speed skating,  Gary  read up on how to do it,  and then built Jeff a pair of  custom speed skates at home!

I remember a cold winter's night in the dorm at old HQ, I was cold enough to be bothered, but not cold enough to get up and get another blanket. I heard some motion in the room and next thing I know a folded blanket landed on top of me. Gary had got up to get another blanket for himself and just figured I needed one too.
I remember responding to a tiered response call, Gary and I were on the back of Pump 1, A 4 year old boy was VSA. We took him from his mothers arms,I did CPR on him all the way to the hospital. I remember back at the station later Gary talking with me seemingly about nothing, but in his own way checking to see how I was handling the call we had just been on.
I remember Gary having quite a time with wheel chocks while driving fire trucks.Wheel chocks are like little ramps you place in front of or behind a trucks wheel to stop it from rolling in case the brakes failed while its parked.They were made of steel or aluminum.If you do drive over one, especially an aluminum one with a fire truck you can damage or completely wreck it.We would watch Gary diligently put out a wheel chock, and when he went to move the truck again forget it was there. We would laugh very hard and then ridicule him about it for a long time.Im not saying he was the total cause but soon after that, the Department switched to rubber wheel chocks.
I remember Gary getting promoted to Captain, and starting to put into practice things we had discussed for years that we felt could be done better. He was continually thinking about how things were done and how they might be done better!
I remember Gary on, the K.P.F.F.A. executive, the  J.H.S.C, his tireless efforts to move Hazardous Materials response to a more prominent position in our fire department. He was the HazMat Guru. 
I remember Gary convincing  Fire Management  to keep our old Rescue truck and repurpose it to become our first Haz-Mat truck. I remember Gary being so excited he brought in  Red Tremclad paint from home to  paint  the truck and make it look better. Like his Tempo he always liked vehicles to look sharp!

I remember Gary and his judo chops. You never knew where he may be lurking waiting to give you a gentle chop on the shoulder or neck and saying to you, Your Dead. This went on all throughout our careers, but became more subdued the older we got!
My first day as Acting Platoon Chief, PC Harry Kalau was on vacation. Management was worried about me having no training time with Harry, before being thrown into the position. Gary already an Acting Platoon Chief  was selected to work that first day with me and show me what and how to do things and ensure I was comfortable with the job.
I remember Gary working on the Commission on.Fire.Accreditation.International.  project. It went on for months but he completed it. We were the First Fire department in Ontario and 2nd in Canada to be certified.
I saw him work equally hard as Corporate Emergency Management Coordinator for Kitchener. I attended  several courses he was hosting or teaching at in that capacity.
When we did an emergency management day with  City workers from other divisions Gary, cautioned us  firefighters before the day began, to lay back guys, let the others answer. We do this stuff all the time, don't show off! Gary was always teaching, coaching, and  encouraging people!
I remember Gary chairing meetings for a Mass casualty training exercise involving many agencies and Conestoga College. Gary was in his element organizing, discussing  and planning. It was something to behold.
I remember going to  conferences with Gary, driving  or flying together to the  United States. Talking solving the world's problems, talking about our families, talking about work, or not talking at all for times as we travelled
 Not that we were mad at each other, we  just had  nothing more to say then. My wife does not understand that concept!
Halfway to Indianappolis for FDIC, we stopped for gas and the Deputies car had a coolant leak. I was frustrated thinking this will be a hassle. Gary took it all in stride, drove to a  local dealership. They had to order in a part in. It was going to be a few days. Gary arranged a rental car, and for the dealership to let us drop off the rental car  back there and pick up the  Deputies car for our return trip home on the next Sunday. No sweat, calm and easy going.
I remember going to San Jose with Gary for a conference, two wild party guys in the big city in California. Not!!! I think one night we stayed out until 11! One big thrill was eating at the hotel restaurant one night ,we ordered the most expensive thing on the menu, Prime Rib.and a dessert. We gloated to each other how we could do that because Donna and Glenda weren't along to stop us. Just acting like boys!
I remember years ago Gary and I were both at fire College in Gravenhurst in nice weather and we brought our bicycles to ride after class. Gary would always want to see where that road goes, lets ride further. Similarly in Indianapolis and San Jose at the conferences, we would walk and walk , sometimes into questionable areas? When I complained or refused to go further Gary would always encourage me  by saying, what are you a woossie??And then kill himself laughing!
I remember Gary being named interim Fire Chief, and just like every other position he attained or assignment he took in his career, he stepped up and met the challenge head on with determination grace and modesty!
What I will miss is never having Gary call me, Hammer again. Never being attacked with a Judo chop in  a fire station. Discussing how we had become the old guys of the KFD and didn't notice it happening. 
I will  greatly miss the conversations and fun I had just spending time working with my friend G.Mann.!

Steve and I were shocked and saddened to hear of Gary's passing.  We both had the pleasure of working with him - Steve with Kitchener Fire and myself with the Waterloo Region Emergency Services Training Complex. Our sincere condolences to Gary's family.

I was shocked to learn of Gary's passing. I remember and worked with a man who led an honorable, respectful, dedicated, professional life. We never expected that death could catch him that fast, but I hope that you will remain strong and faithful in this sudden loss. My sincere sympathies.

Gary will be fondly remembered as a man of integrity by all those who had the opportunity to work with him. His love of his families (at home and at the station) was also evident in his daily walk. I count myself privileged to know him. Sincerest condolences...
Larry Brassard
Fire Chief, Gravenhurst Fire Department 


I am very sorry to hear of your loss. Any interactions I had with Gary were always a pleasure. He was very friendly, kind, and as others have said, always had a smile on his face. I was sad when he retired from the City and I am sad again today. I wish you all strength to get through this difficult time.

It is with shock and great sadness that we have learned of Gary's passing away. Jane and I remember Gary as a very caring and wonderful person. Our condolences to Donna, Jean and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. 

Bob and Jane Cromwell

On behalf of Waterloo Fire Rescue we express our deepest condolences to the Mann Family.  Gary touched our lives here at Waterloo Fire as well as the greater community and he will be dearly missed.

It is time of sadness when you lose someone who always was pleased to see you.  The easy smile and warm handshake. He frequently thanked me for hiring him and always I reminded him that he hired himself, passing the tests and examinations that predicted he would be a very successful Fire Fighter. If it is my loss I can only imagine what family and friends are trying to get past. There hopefully is some comfort knowing he will be remembered and missed.
                                                   Bill Hayden
                                                   Retired Kitchener Fire  Chief

  My deepest sympathy to all the family, Gary was like the fourth brother to me as we grew up. His mother and father were my second family, this news is so sad, he was a great friend for many many years. My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone.

I was so shocked to hear about Gary's passing.  What a great man!  He will surely be missed, but never forgotten.  May the love of friends and family carry you through this difficult time

My condolences Donna and family. I had the honour of working with Gary throughout my career, especially as colleagues on the management team. We had the opportunity to talk many times about work and home life, where I gained an appreciation for his passion for the fire service and even more so for his family.Gary talked often of spending great times with his family. I am saddened to learn of his untimely passing, Gary will be missed.

Jeff, so sorry to hear the passing of your father. My deepest sympathy to you and your family. I know that your dad was very dear to you. If there's anything I can do, please let me know.

Oh Jeff.  I am so sorry to hear the news, please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.  Ellen deBoer

What a shock! Gary was such a great person and someone who always listened. Gary and I spent many hours discussing fire service issues, and he regardless of the issue, he was always smiling

Terri and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time if great loss.

Jeff, My deepest sympathy to you and the family on the sad passing of your father.  Always remember the fun times you shared with him all threw the years. Thinking of you.  Take Care.

Jeff, I was so saddened to hear about your father's passing. I know this is a very difficult time for you and your family. You have my very deepest sympathy

Jeff, I am so sorry for you and your family, to hear that you have lost your Father. Thinking of you, Arlene

Jeff, My thoughts and prayers to you and your family and this tragic and saddest. Of times

Jeff my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time.

Jeff, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time in your lives.  Gilles Bouchard

Gary was a caring and devoted husband, father and grandfather who will be greatly missed by all of us.  A kind soul who I am honoured to have known..
May God bless and comfort Donna and her family.


Love and prayers
Jim and Pat Paddon

We are saddened and shocked at the untimely passing of Gary (G MANN) –  this is not the proper order of things.


I will always feel extremely fortunate to have worked with Gary and although not assigned to the same platoon we did spend hundreds of hours together on association activities, conferences, and seminars.  


Gary absolutely loved his career as a Fire Fighter and was a passionate advocate for the health and safety of his colleagues and lived by the philosophy of always doing “the right thing”.  He worked selfishly to make the fire service a safer and much better place to work - he truly made a difference.


On so many levels he achieved that with the Kitchener Fire Department and was at one time known affectionately as “Mr. HAZMAT”.


Even more than that Gary was the consummate gentleman and the ultimate family man.  He talked constantly about how fortunate he was and how much joy his wife and children brought to his life.  This grew by epic proportions when he became a grandfather.    I mean this in the nicest way possible - Gary was a less neurotic version of Clark Griswald – he would do anything for his family, especially Liam and Megan.


Although we didn’t see each other that often after our retirements we did chat occasionally where he would start the conversation talking about his children and grandchildren with the remainder of the chat relegated to laughing about old work stories, and there were many.  When talking with Gary we always laughed!!!  


We truly have lost a great friend  –  my recollection of Gary will always be laughing and smiling.  There are so many funny stories that Gary was a part of and I will always treasure them all  –  it just won’t be as much fun reciting them anymore without him there  –  some things will never be as funny again.


As an aside, it was lost on me how tall Gary was until I picked him up early on the morning of September 11, 2001 to drive to Toronto for an Arson Course at the Toronto Fire Academy.  I arrived in my 1973 MGB with the roof down.  Once he was able to fit in and along with suffering a potential case of frost bite on that cool fall morning,  it turned out his head was higher than the windshield…………..there are more bugs out at that time of day than I would have thought and by Hi-way 6 he decided it best not to talk and keep his mouth closed as he already had breakfast.


My final thought of Gary will be of him reciting the phrase he had to use so many times during his career………………… “what the Chief meant to say”.


Thanks Brother for making our lives’ a much better place.



Peter


Donna we are so sorry to hear of your loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Thinking of all the fire fights we had together over the years. Going to miss you Gary. Rest in peace.

OBITUARIO

Gary Vernon Mann

21 julio, 1957 – 9 septiembre, 2017

Coutts Funeral Home & Cremation Centre

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