GARY CLIPPERTON

1943 - 2023

CLIPPERTON, GARY May 14, 1943 - May 2, 2023 Athlete, musician, teacher, traveller, storyteller, builder, conductor, father, husband, brother, uncle, grandpa, friend and community leader. Gary lived a vibrant life full of adventure, curiosity, smiles and passion. Born in Simcoe County to Graydon and Doris Clipperton, Gary was the eldest of five. His family moved to Streetsville when he was a baby. He met the love of his life, Cathy Hampton, in high school, whom he married in '67. Gary played varsity football for University of Toronto, winning the inaugural Vanier Cup in '65 before playing for the Calgary Stampeders in '67. His football career ended due to injury and he moved on to teaching. As a teacher and coach, he inspired and encouraged students at Meadowvale, Lorne Park, Streetsville, Mayfield and Cawthra schools. A tireless community leader, he was on the steering committee to build the Meadowvale Theatre and he pioneered the Bread & Honey Festival. He was recognized as Mississauga's Musician of the Year in '85, and was inducted to the Mississauga Legends Row in 2017. And of course, MUSIC. It was his happy place, and he loved a medley. Gary was the founder and conductor of JUSTUS and in its 40-year tenure, the choral group became a source of joy for all of Mississauga. At the invitation of late Mayor McCallion, JUSTUS travelled to World Expo in Japan in 2012 to perform. He was a fearless traveller, always interested in the scenic route. He gave the best hugs and had a contagious smile. He took pride in reading stories to his grandchildren, loved to BBQ a feast for friends around the pool, could garden all summer long and he loved to canoe. He lived his last five years with Frontotemporal Dementia, and died two weeks short of his 80th birthday. He will be missed by Cathy; and his children, Kelly (Joseph), Kate and Kasey (Erin); and grandchildren, Ariel and Eilis. Predeceased by his brother, Jon; and sister-in-law, Peggi. He will live on in his siblings, Rob, Michael and Carol; sister-in-law, Marie; and his extended loving family and expansive community of friends. He touched a lot of people's lives. Thank you to the spectacular team at TRI and the loving care at Wesburn Lodge. A tribute will be held at Streetsville United Church on Monday, May 8, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. Consider a donation in Gary's name to Alzeheimer's Canada (alzheimer.ca/en).