BANNERMAN, GARY WILLIAM - Despite the wonderful work by the very talented and dedicated liver transplant team at the Vancouver General Hospital, Gary Bannerman passed away on July 11, 2011 at the age of 64 years. Gary was born in Sydney, Nova Scotia on May 23, 1947 to parents Bill (deceased) and Norma Bannerman, and he lived most of his formative years in Moncton, NB. From a very early age he was a charismatic, independent and spirited personality who never shied from expressing an opinion or challenging any issue if he felt it needed to be challenged. At the young age of 23, Gary headed on his own to Vancouver to continue his pursuit of a media career with the Vancouver Province newspaper. Quickly his love for Vancouver and its people inspired him to become a very passionate ambassador for the city and the province throughout the rest of his career in newspaper, radio broadcasting at CKNW, writing and communications consulting. His love for his wife Patricia grew every year of their 40 year marriage, and his caring and devotion for his family could never be questioned. Gary is survived by Patricia, mother Norma, sisters Wendy Rogers (Neil), Karen Bannerman (Colin Comrie) and brother Ross (Julie). Throughout his life Gary had very sharp mind and an incredible a gift for words, but his true quality was how he genuinely connected with people where acquaintances quickly became friends. Gary’s life was far too short.
A memorial service will be held at First Memorial Boal Chapel, 1505 Lillooet Rd., North Vancouver, BC on Friday, July 15, 2011 at 10:00 AM. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to the Salvation Army (604-299-3908), VGH and UBC Hospital Foundation in support of Liver Disease Programme (604-875-4676) or to a charity of one’s choice. First Memorial – 604-980-3451