June 9, 1978 - October 22, 2010

We are deeply saddened to tell you of Gary's death in Port Renfrew, B.C. after a long struggle with finding his place in the world and with his inner demons.

He was born in Kamloops and grew up in Victoria where he excelled in sports, academics and student leadership while attending Lambrick Park Secondary. He went to university for a few years and then traveled extensively but always came back to the west coast.

Gary's interests included the outdoors, hiking, painting, camping, woodworking, gardening and cooking. He was a complex person who was compassionate and wanted to help those less fortunate. He believed strongly that people should understand the importance of nature and the interconnectedness of all things. Material possessions meant very little to Gary as the years progressed and he struggled with much of modern society and the direction it is taking. Gary's passion was music; the life he wanted to live was that of a singer-songwriter helping to influence individuals and society.

Gary was predeceased by his grandparents Eric and Flo Bowers of Kamloops and Clair and Ellen Rae Farris of Chase.

He will be forever loved and missed by his Mom and Dad Robbie & Al (Port Moody); brother Keith (Calgary); niece Avry; aunts and uncles Jacquie Farris (Victoria), Nancy & Al Baker (Kamloops), Brent & Janet Bowers (Vernon); numerous cousins and other family members and friends from the past and present.

His beliefs and values touched us deeply. Gary loved the oceans, forests and wildlife of the west coast.

If desired, please make a donation to a cause that helps preserve these.

A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, December 5th, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at Lambrick Park Secondary School, 4139 Torquay Drive, Victoria, B.C.