GARY RUSSELL BARTRIM

On May 7, 2021, Gary Bartrim, loving husband, father and grandfather passed away peacefully in North Vancouver Hospice surrounded by his family. Gary's passing was the tragic outcome of his year-long battle with pancreatic cancer.
Gary was born in Vancouver on March 9, 1943. Gary was raised in Port Alice where he spent his childhood playing sports, fishing and enjoying life on the ocean (where he discovered all kinds of places). In some ways, Gary never left Port Alice as he kept in touch - and met up with - his Port Alice group for lunches and visits often.
Gary was a very talented and interesting man with untold life experiences. Gary was a great story teller; and believe us, he told many! Gary loved life and lived it to the fullest. Whether sailing, fishing, hunting, horseback riding, skiing, hiking, snowmobiling, gardening … the outdoors was where Gary was truly alive. Gary had an insatiable desire to learn and was always interested in 'something new or different'. He was interested in learning everything about everything and, as a result, was called upon by many to help out in various situations. Gary was always happy to lend a helping hand whether it be to family, friends or simply strangers in need. This wanna-be Italian loved large family gatherings with endless Italian food while raising a glass or two of vino!
Gary was a member of both the Sunshine Coast Wine Club and the Suncoast Wood Crafters Guild. With respect to woodworking, Gary would spend uncountable hours in his workshop making heartfelt items for his family and friends. This was just one of Gary's many interests that brought so much pleasure and joy to the people he loved.
Gary's 45 year career in the pulp and paper industry took him to many places in the world. Three key milestones in Gary's career were his involvement and leadership in the start-up of new paper mills in Prince George, Prince Albert and Howe Sound. Gary enjoyed continued exposure to new and evolving technology which in turn, kept him engaged in both his job and the industry as a whole. Gary was a committed employee who was respected by many in his field.
Above all else, Gary loved his family and friends! He leaves behind, his brokenhearted and loving wife, Teresa; his children Michele (Troy), Todd (Edwina) and Cory (Emily); his cherished grandchildren Kia, Abby, Tristan, Linden and another on the way (whom Gary so badly wanted to meet in person). Also missing Gary are his siblings: Maureen (Jeff), Roger (Joanne), Jill and Pam (Russ); his in-laws Rita and Kent, Lu and Holly and many more loving nieces, and nephews. Gary's predeceased brothers Bill and Russ and his (so) faithful companion, Riley, are all awaiting Gary so that they can continue on with their endless shenanigans.
Gary was so proud of his family, and Teresa was the love of his life! Gary and Teresa built a wonderful life together that started in Prince George and settled on the Sunshine Coast. Gary and Teresa raised three children that they are extremely proud of. Gary and Teresa spent so many wonderful years with the grandchildren on sailing, camping and fishing trips and vacations to Cuba and Mexico. The grandchildren cherish their Papa (Gar-Bear)! Their retirement years included trips to various countries in Europe, Australia and many winters in Mexico. The past seven winters were spent in the beautiful town of La Cruz, where Gary and Teresa both made lifetime friends.
The family wishes to thank the fantastic nurses and doctors at Sechelt Hospital, SS Coast Palliative Care team, North Vancouver Hospice, BC Ambulance and the Howe Sound Pharmacy.
A very special thank you to an incredibly caring doctor, Darrin Spithoff. To all of our family and friends, we cannot express our gratitude enough to you all. A very special thank you to Lorraine Maisonneuve and Dave Buchanan who stayed by our sides throughout the ordeal in Mexico.
Gary was deeply loved and he touched so many lives that he will be sadly missed. We thank Gary for his love and his life that he had given to all of us.
The family requests no flowers. In Gary's honor, donations can be made to the Sechelt Hospital Foundation, Pancreatic Cancer Research or a charity of your choice.