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Gary Doak Obituary
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Paul Dineen
March 29, 2018
I lived in the Boston area and started watching hockey in 1969-1970, when I was 14. My observations of Gary Doak during that time were limited. I mainly knew of him getting limited ice time, toward the end of games. And then, when he stepped on the ice, the fans often gave him a Bronx cheer. I didn't get that and didn't like it. Some were probably real, encouraging cheers. But, overall, they sounded mocking and derisive. You could see that he always played hard and paid a price with injuries. Besides, with Orr, Awrey, and the two Smiths it would be tough for many D-men to get ice time. My memory is more clear from the mid-70s when Orr was often out with injuries and Gary got more playing time That's when it sunk into me that Gary Doak was a heck of a good defensive defenseman. It's only now that I learn how generous and what a gentleman he was. RIP, Gary.
i' m a very distant aquintance had the honor of meeting MR GARY DOAK THRU THE LATE DR ROBERT HARNEY
fredric cardoza
August 16, 2017
it is with deep sadness I grieve over his passing one of my FAVORITE BRUINS PLAYERS and had the honor to meet him and an autograph picture . I am speech less like my youth is passing me by.. I will remember him in my thoughts and prayers.... frederic cardoza
LINDA STOWELL (COOPER)
April 25, 2017
I just heard and wanted to let you know how sorry I am to hear of your loss. I still remember going to games in Toronto when you and Gary were dating.
Don and Joan Gower
April 5, 2017
Judy and Family:
Our sympathy to you at this sad time. Our thoughts are with you.
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Angelo Tilas
April 3, 2017
Judy, Ryan , Jen and families...
I was so sorry to hear of Gary's passing.
We will always remember his days at MDC (Car 25) and the joy he brought to many.
Doakie.....may you rest in peace.
Ang
April 2, 2017
Sorry for your loss. God bless the Doak family.
Matt DeBonis
Delray Beach, FL
March 30, 2017
So sorry for your loss. May you
find comfort from our
loving Creator,
"He hears their cry for help, and he rescues them."
~ Psalms 145:19
Wayne Rumig
March 30, 2017
My condolences to the whole family. I remember well the good times we had as teenagers. Gary was a great guy and a great friend when we were growing up. Those were good years and it is sad to hear he is no longer with us. May he rest in peace.
Richard Merrigan
March 30, 2017
I remember the years watching you play for the B's. Such memorable times. And I'll never forget how good you were blocking shots. Unbelievable!!!
Rest-In-Peace
GEORGE C'MIEL
March 29, 2017
I would like to pass my condolences and those of all his Florida friends, the guys and gals from both The Ocean Breeze Golf Club and south Florida to the Doak family. Our golfing days were always worth the price of admission. A couple of hackers trying to beat the unbeatable game. Ah what fun it 'twas. The jokes, laughs and cameraderie will not soon be forgotten.
RIP my friend. It was truly an honor and pleasure to share your company.Gary you were a gentleman,great family man, good friend and warrior on the ice. May you rest in Peace "Doakie".
Wayne Bissett
March 29, 2017
Dear Doak family,
So very sorry to hear of Gary's passing. Growing up in Goderich as childhood friends, there are so many fun and fond memories of playing together whether hockey or other sports. Gary was always 'Doakie' to all of us and although my family moved away in 1958, we had several chances to meet along the way. He never changed over the years. Rest in peace.
Wayne (Biz)
Don and Jane Stokes
March 29, 2017
Dear Judy and Family you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time with the passing of Gary
Jamie Skeoch
March 29, 2017
Judy, Ryan, Jennifer and family,
We were very saddened to hear of Gary's passing! From a very young age Gary was a legend in our family!! A small town Goderich boy who made it to the big show!! Having had a chance to get to know Gary and your family through his friendship with my father Vern was a real thrill for all of us! Aside from being a great hockey player, we was an even better person! The stories we heard from their childhood days in Goderich will live on in our family!! Thoughts and prayers to your family during this time of loss.
Sincerely,
Jamie Skeoch (Carol, Lisa and Brenda)
Phil Wallace
March 29, 2017
Got to know Gary when he worked for the MDC Recreation Dept.He hired me as a skating instructor to visit local MDC hockey rinks around the Boston area.He also was very instrumental in securing ice rental for youth hockey camps and clinics.I was also fortunate be able to skate with Gary on Friday morning at a local rink and if he passed you the puck you better not screw it up.because you won't see it again.RIP Doakie.
Paul & Cindy Giansiracusa
March 29, 2017
To the Doak family we are so sorry for your loss. We are unable to come pay our respects. Paul is away and I unfortunately have a family service to attend on this same day. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. May you cherish all of the wonderful memories you had together. Gary RIP
Paul & Cindy Giansiracusa
Chris and Sharon Graham
March 29, 2017
Judy and family
We send our deepest condolences to you. We were very saddened to hear of Gary's passing. Our thoughts are with you in this sad time.
Chris and Sharon
Eastern Hockey School- Worchester, MA- 1967 Danny Grant, Charlie Hodge, Don Awrey, Gary Doak
Ray Seeback
March 28, 2017
I was a Long Island, NY kid who went to the Eastern Hockey School in Worchester ,MA with a couple of my teammates when we about 12 years old. In those days the pros had to work at camps to pay the bills. We all loved Gary Doak because he was so nice to all of us.
Gary gave me one of the greatest thrills a year or so after I had attended the camp. My Dad took me to the Rangers/Bruins game at MSG and brought me down to the runway where the players came out. In those days you could stand right next to the rubber mat they walked to the ice on.
I was very shy and wasn't going to say anything but as Gary was walking past he says "Hey Ray, how ya doin?". My father said I had a smile on for two weeks after that. How in God's name he ever remembered me I'll never know.
Within the last few years I sent this story into the Bruins alumni hoping it would get to him so he'd know how good he had made a little kid feel.
This is very sad news and my condolences go out to his family and friends.
Maria Palladino Piccolo
March 28, 2017
To Judy and family, so sorry to hear of Gary's passing. God Bless to your beautiful children and grandchildren.
Donna Vergados
March 28, 2017
Judy and family, Our deepest sympathy to you all. He was a great friend and will be truly missed. Nick feels like he lost his brother. He and my son George enjoyed the times in Florida playing golf together. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May he rest in peace.
Donna, Nick and George Vergados
Mary Riley
March 28, 2017
Judy, Jennifer and Ryan, our hearts broke when we read about Gary. We have the fondest memories of him when Ryan, Todd Bailey and our son, Chris were just learning to skate! Gary always had a smile on face and a kind word for everyone.
I'm sure he and his buddy, Ace Bailey are in heaven together sharing "remember when" stories.
Brad Small
March 28, 2017
I was so blessed to get a round of golf in with Gary as a guest of his good friend Leo last summer! - Thanks Gary for your friendship and such a fun day! - Growing up a Bruins fan I remember many games with Gary giving it "his all" on the ice defending the blue line. God bless you all at this time of loss. Brad
Cindy Kelly
March 28, 2017
My deepest sympathy to the Doak family. Praying that our Lord will bless you with His love, comfort and strength during this difficult and sad time. May the memories of your husband, father, and grandfather, sustain you all the days of your life. God Bless You All! Cindy
Nicole Marcotte-Acres
March 28, 2017
Judy, Jen, Ryan and Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Gary's passing. I have such fond memories of us spending time together. Especially with you Jen and Ryan. I send you love, thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Deb Shewfelt
March 28, 2017
My sympathy to Gary's family. He was an all around nice guy. It was always a pleasure to have a chat with him when he was in Goderich. He was great for the promotion of hockey , a great player and a good advocate of the game. RIP Gary.
Deb Shewfelt
Cris and Doug Spitzig
March 28, 2017
Judy and family. Doug speaks very fondly of Gary and their fun times in Goderich. Doug thoroughly enjoyed their golfing excursions and playing ball. He said they had so many laughs. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.
Klaas Degroot
March 27, 2017
Back in the late 70's I met Gary at the Clinton race track and I pointed out my son sitting in the grandstand with my father and asked Gary to go and say hi to him. When I returned a few minutes later David was all exited because Gary Doak had come and talked to him and even knew his name. A good man gone to soon, my condolences to Judy and family
Steve Ciambelli
March 27, 2017
So sorry to hear this news ..even though Gary lives on my street here in Lynnfield I never had the privledge of meeting him..my condolences to his family..
Bob Kitchen
March 27, 2017
Prayers to all. He will never be forgotten. He was part of the New England sports scene and was mentioned every time the Bruins were written or spoken about. He was a stalwart of a defense man and led by example. I will remember the way he played the game. May God take his soul home. And yes they do play hockey in heaven. R.I.P. Gary.
Bob & Shirley Dinsmore
March 27, 2017
Dear Judy, Jennifer, Ryan and Steve, Sue.
Our deepest sympathy in the loss of Gary. Although it is a long time since I have seen him we have some great memories of our growing up years in Goderich. So many hockey games over the years. You will be missed so much by your family, friends and fans. RIP Gary
Wayne & Gwen Doak
March 27, 2017
We were sorry to hear about Gary's passing. He was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed by so many people. Our deepest sympathy to Judy and family. Keep your memories close as they will help you get through this difficult time.
Bill and Marlene Black
March 27, 2017
Gary and Judy were great neighbour's in Goderich.Gary was a great supporter of Lion Young Canada week in Goderich.Rest in peace Gary
Larry Daer
March 27, 2017
Gary lived 2 doors down when I was I kid. I could always tell when is near training camp because he would jog to the race track and do a few laps and then run back home. He is the reason I have already been a Bruins fan.
Just a great guy.
Domenic Pontarelli
March 27, 2017
RIP Doakie!
Jim Lovett
March 27, 2017
I truly liked and respected Gary. I worked under his supervision for several years at the DCR golf courses. He was a good man I'll miss him
Cecelia Denomme
March 27, 2017
Dear Judy - we are saddened to know of Gary's passing - a gentle and genuine man - and always a very special part of our Goderich community.
You and your family are on our minds and in our hearts -
Sincerely Cecelia and Don Denomme
Keith Bottema
March 27, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all
Ken Murray
March 27, 2017
Dear Gary,
You enriched so many lives while you were here. You were also on one of the greatest teams in NHL history. A solid man and a solid player. We were so lucky to have you in our lives back then and we are deeply saddened losing you. RIP Gary. Thank you for all of your sacrifices for your fans. With love and respect.
Brian and Nicole Kish
March 27, 2017
Ryan Doak and Family,
While I only had the opportunity to meet Gary once, I know what a great man he was by the children that he helped raise. Gary's legacy lives through so many, but most solely through our dearest friend Ryan Doak. Gary raised a great human being who is a great father in his own right. Blessing to Ryan and the entire Doak Family.
Becky and Dave McIvor McIvor
March 27, 2017
We send our deepest sympathies to the family of Gary Doak. Such a caring person. He did great things for Goderich through his career in hockey and after also. Arranging a great fundraiser with lots of hockey celebrities after the tornado.He is someone Goderich citizens were so proud to say he started his hockey here in this small town.Thankyou Gary 25 will always be your number. Sincerely Becky and Dave McIvor
Christine Golden
March 27, 2017
Judy, Jennifer and Ryan,
I was saddened to hear of Gary's passing. He was a wonderful boss and friend during the four years I worked at the Epicurean as the bookkeeper. I often thought of the great times we had at Exeter's best restaurant and bar.
So sorry for your loss. Rest in Peace Gary.
Chris Golden
Brian Goodleaf
March 27, 2017
Mrs.Doak & family,
Please accept my deepest, sincerest condolences in the passing of Gary. As you know, he assisted us in raising almost $400,000 for our community by participating in the B's Alumni Games and went above and beyond in making sure we received everything we needed.. He was and is a true gentleman, and always answered the call to help.We spoke a few times and he was always upbeat and positive, and we met up in The Gardens not too long ago. I am grateful for the time he afforded me, and always took time to say hello. He definitely will be missed and I was honored to call him a friend. We certainly lost one of the good ones...
James Celona
March 27, 2017
So sorry for loss my Gary Rest In Peace my prayers and thoughts go to the family in this tough team
Ricky, Debbie, Donna & Denise Testa
March 27, 2017
Judy, Jennifer & Ryan
Our deepest condolences to you and your family during this dark time. Please know that our family is keeping you and yours in our prayers and thoughts.
Denise & Anthony Iacoviello
March 27, 2017
Dear Jen and Family,
We are so very sorry for the loss of your dad. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, your mom, children, and the entire family. I am sure you have many great memories with your dad. As we remember all the hockey games he watched as a proud grandpa and the great legacy he has left behind. I hope in time these memories comfort all of you. I know this is very hard. The loss of a parent is never easy but I do hope in time, you can all look back at those special moments together. Thinking of all of you and sending love your way.
Love, Denise, Anthony, Ashley, Alexandria, and Christian Iacoviello❤
Tony Grossi
March 27, 2017
RIP Doakie #25
Bill and Donna Fritzley
March 27, 2017
Dear Judy and family: We were so saddened to hear of Gary's (Baldy's) passing. Please know that our thoughts are with you at this very sad and difficult time.
Bill and Donna
Ashby Moncure
March 27, 2017
You will be missed Gary.
Dr Ashby C Moncure and family
March 27, 2017
I am so sorry for the loss of your loved one. Please find peace and comfort in Psalms 119:76.
Victor Gnozzo
March 27, 2017
A nice man a great family..be proud of all you accomplished..
Great day last September at the Abernaki Golf Course with Gary and Brad (pictured) Leo and Paul
Leo and Pam Kiley
March 27, 2017
Judy, Jen, Ryan and families
So sad about Doakies passing. He was one of our truly great friends. Our time together enjoying golf outings, evenings at the Boston Yacht Club, trips to Mexico and the Caribbean islands, Florida, etc. was way too short. We will miss his laughter and good nature but he will always be in our hearts. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.
Love
Pam and Leo
Bob Fredo
March 27, 2017
Debbie and I are truly saddened at Gary's passing. Although over the past couple of years during our many golf outings and several get-togethers we were aware of his illness and his treatments, Gary always put forth a positive point of view. He was a proud and courageous teammate always answering the call. He never sought sympathy although he was not adverse to taking an extra stroke if offered.
Judy, we pray that you and your family will take some comfort in knowing how much Gary was admired and enjoyed by his friends. I am proud to be one of them and will always remember our times together both in Boston and in Florida. May Gary rest in peace and may you and your family be uplifted by the love and respect his friends had for him.
God Bless, Bob & Debbie
Chris Johnston
March 27, 2017
Gary, you are going to be greatly missed at the Dunkin Donuts each morning.
The coffee boys wish Judy and the family nothing but the best during this very tough time.
# 25 we miss you and love ya
Chris, Ron, Ric, Anthony, Billy, Rocco, Pete, Bobby, Torrey, & Joe.
Mark Bell
March 27, 2017
Thanks for all you gave to every Bruins fan. While you lent us your life on the ice, it seems as if you gave a lot to those around the rest of your life as well. Nice Going, Gary. RIP.
Bill Steeves
March 27, 2017
One of the better defensemen in the NFL, always enjoyed seeing you play.
Doug Chamney
March 27, 2017
Our thoughts today are with Doakie and his family. We have a lost a true Huron County Hockey Hero. God Bless
Frank DeAngelo
March 27, 2017
When people would ask me what Gary was like the word gentleman always came to mind. When my son played youth hockey I would always see Gary at the arenas making sure everything was being done right. The time I introduced Gary to my son he stressed being a good person and getting a good education above all else. No doubt about it that Gary is a first ballot inductee in the Hall of Fame of life.
Barb O'Brien
March 27, 2017
Our deepest sympathies Judy and family thinking of you Mike and Barb O'Brien
Cheryl Doak-McCarty
March 27, 2017
Dear Judy, Jennifer, Ryan, Sue, Steve and Jeff.
I am sadden to hear the passing of Gary. Gary will be surely missed. I did not know he was ill. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Take care and rest in peace Gary.
Cheryl Doak-McCarty
Kenny Manzi
March 27, 2017
My condolences to the Doak family and Gary's professional family,I had the honor of serving Mr.Doak hot dogs at the old snack bar In the old Boston Garden a number of times and each time he was kind and respectful and legitimately interested in how my day was going,we will never see the likes of him again, may he rest in eternal peace.
Scott Levison
March 27, 2017
RIP Doakie
From a life-long Bruins fan
Bob Martel
March 26, 2017
Gary, you were a part of my childhood. Like a lot of kids in my generation, I'd get out there on the ice or on the playground and pretend that I was Bobby Orr. But just as often, I'd pretend that I was Gary Doak. I always admired how you played the game - a defenseman's defenseman! My condolences to your family and friends.
Fred Plett
March 26, 2017
I am sorry to hearing of your passing Mr. Doak. I was a lifeguard for the MDC as a teen and my manager used to work the Simoni rink in the winter and that's how I was introduced to you, the pick up games on Mondays and Fridays. It was always a thrill to skate with you and your cronies. Thank you for that. My deepest condolences to your family and friends. I mean that in the utmost sincerity. God Bless and RIP.
Kitty Malloy
March 26, 2017
Judy, Jennifer & Ryan,
I am so sad to hear that Gary has passed away. It's been a long time but so many wonderful memories managing the Epicurean and working with Gary for 5 great years.
I did not know he was sick and wish that I had seen him over the years. Every time he came to town with the Bruins old timer's team I would get a message from at least one restaurant that he was asking for me.
I will be in CA on business this week and so sorry I can not attend his wake. My heart goes out to all of you and my deepest sympathy. Take care and Rest In Peace Gary.
Kitty Malloy
Don & Helen Marcotte
March 26, 2017
Dear Judy and Family,
Please accept our sincerest condolences during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Wish we could be there to pay our respects, but we are in Florida at this time, Please know that we are thinking of you and your family.
Don & Helen Marcotte
March 26, 2017
Rest In Peace Gary. The B's have lost another great one both on and off the ice. So glad you decided to reside in the Boston area after retiring
A fan from Melrose
March 26, 2017
Rest In Piece, Gary. Deepest condolences to Doak family.
Sincerely,
Former Epicurean employee.
Barbara Coburn
March 26, 2017
Judy, Jen, Ryan and Family: I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My deepest condolences to all of you. My prayers to all of you!
He was a great guy. I have fond memories of many days at Kasabuski with all o you and of the wonderful times watching him play professionally. When I think of your dad what I remember most was the look of love and pride that would come into his eyes when Ryan came out of the locker room or Jen walked into the rink. His smile then, said it all.
Judy, a special hug for you from an old friend. I'm so sorry for your loss. I wish you peace and comfort.
Lisa Gillespie
March 26, 2017
Judy, Jennifer, Ryan and family. So sorry to hear about the loss of Gary or as my dad fondly referred to him as "Doakie". He was a wonderful man. I remember his warm smile! I hope your memories of many wonderful years together will help you through this very difficult time.
My thoughts are with you,
Lisa Gillespie (nee Skeoch)
Rod & Ruth Reid
March 26, 2017
Our thoughts are with you Judy, and your family.
Gary has been a tremendous friend.
Ron & Doris Daer
March 26, 2017
Dear Judy and family,
We are so sorry to hear of Gary's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Doris & Ron and family
Goderich ON Canada
Sandra McGrail
March 26, 2017
Dear Judy, Jen, Ryan, Mike, Liz and the grandsons-please accept our deepest sympathy. Tom & Sandra McGrail
John and Barbara White
March 26, 2017
To Judy and Family ,Also, Steve and Sue , we would like to send or sympathies , and sorry to hear of Gary's Passing. From John & Barbara White in Goderich On. Canada
John W. Gately, John H. Gately & Fred Sprague
March 26, 2017
The Gately Family and Staff wish to express our sincere sympathy to you. It is our hope that we may be able to make a difficult time more bearable. Please feel free to call on us at anytime as we are always available to you.
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