GARY CRANMER

It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Gary Cranmer, at the age of 83. Left to mourn are his close friend, Susan and her family; son, Dave (Shirley); brother, David (Kathleen); grandchildren, Miles (Daisy) and Rose; friends, Steve, Chunyan, and John; and first wife, Elaine. Gary also leaves behind his niece, Deb (Paul); nephew, Paul (Beth); his dear old dog, Tara; great-nieces and nephews, and a lifetime of friends and students. He was predeceased by his brother, Don. Gary was born in Sarnia, Ontario, and from an early age showed a keen intellect and athletic prowess. Recruited to Western University on a football scholarship, he studied history, philosophy, and English before heading to the CFL. He made the Hamilton Tiger Cats as a starting fullback, but an injury sidelined his football career. A natural teacher, Gary enrolled in the Faculty of Education, taking his first teaching job in Timmons before settling in Toronto, where he taught at Newtonbrook Secondary, then taught and coached at Emery Collegiate until his retirement. Gary loved his students, and his passion for teaching was obvious. His energy and enthusiasm were infectious. When Gary became interested in a subject or a new hobby, he would dive into it with vigor. He played squash, was a committed golfer, learned piano at the age of 70, skied until his 82nd year, and was an avid cook. Gary loved people deeply, and gave them all of his heart and time. He was generous, kind, and passionate about the people in his life. He was a deep, brilliant thinker, and a wonderful conversationalist and story teller. He was an avid reader and researcher, and had a gift for sharing what he learned in an engaging way. He was full of fun, and found immense joy in his interactions with people. He will be deeply missed. A Celebration of Life for Gary will take place at Newediuk Funeral Home, Kipling Chapel, 2058 Kipling Avenue (North of Rexdale Boulevard), on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at 1 p.m. Visitation will be held from 12-1 p.m., and a reception will follow the Celebration of Life. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the CNIB or The David Suzuki Foundation. Online condolences at newediukfuneralhome.com.