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Rev. F.John and Dallas Adams posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2019
We were deeply saddened to hear of Garry's (affectionately Mr. G) passing. It was always a joy and a pleasure to include him in our professional and private life and to benefit from his outstanding talent and wise counsel. As a teacher, he exemplified the three Fs of a good teacher, be fair, be firm and be friendly.His benevolent and gracious personality was greatly admired by his peers, students and friends.He was a genius in discovering talent, potential and opportunity and bringing it to fruition. He never did anything for glory or that it would look good on a resume. We don't think he ever prepared a resume. As our organist ,he was superb and went beyond the call of duty to ensure the highest standards and to fulfill the smallest needs.His face reflected the brightness of the brightest star on a clear night and his heart radiated the warmness of the noon day sun. We believe he is now conducting and accompanying Heaven's Celestial Choir. Mr. G. "Rest in The Lord" knowing that your work is complete here on earth and that your work will follow after you.
We are sorry we cannot be personally present for today's Celebration God Bless!
John and Dallas
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Annie Wentzell posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2019
A life well-lived. A lasting legacy. A true gentleman. To be remembered always.
Edna, Annie & Paul
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Lydia Hatcher posted a condolence
Wednesday, July 10, 2019
I met Gary almost 50 years ago when I was a teenager performing in musicals at the arts and culture centre. What a wonderful teacher and musician. I will miss him
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Rev. Harry J. Whitehorne posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 9, 2019
I was an Intentional Interim Minister at First United Church for 18 months while Dr. Graham was the organist and Choir Director. Gary was always there to offer his support, and his musical abilities were far above all others that I have ever worked with. In my opinion, First United Church was so very fortunate to have him on staff.
Rest In Peace, my friend. I will never forget you.
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Danielle Batstone posted a condolence
Saturday, July 6, 2019
Mr. G (Gary) was my mentor and teacher from the age of 7. How can I possibly summarize what he meant to me over the course of my life? That's truly an impossible task. Filled with a generous spirit, undying dedication to his students, incredible musical talent, and a wicked sense of humour. I still remember him cracking my knuckles in my piano lessons with a meter stick- this is a fond memory!!!! He gave, and gave, and then gave some more, never looking for anything in return. We spent hours and hours together- and I grew as a musician and as a person from his life lessons. He had such an impact on me. I feel as if a piece of my heart is now missing and it aches to hear his laughter just one more time. I hope he knows how much he was loved and respected by all. An incredible human being, never to be replicated.
love Danielle xo
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Danielle Batstone lit a candle
Saturday, July 6, 2019
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In memory of such a special person, mentor and teacher. I will miss you so very much.
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Jeanie MacIntosh Fagan posted a condolence
Wednesday, July 3, 2019
To Gary’s Friends and Family: I am very proud to have grown up in the small N. S. community of Avonport and also very proud to say I knew and have great admiration for Gary’s amazing talent and generous, loving personality. We are so grateful for his example to many musicians throughout the Maritime’s. Blessings to his close loved ones.
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Lori Lee Pike posted a condolence
Wednesday, July 3, 2019
I just loved him. He was remarkable. He taught us from day one, (Fern Street School. 1972 for me) and he remembered each and every one of our names. He gave us our voices. He influenced me musically from kindergarten on. When we were his little protégés, he would make these funny faces before we would perform to put us at ease. Everyone would be shining brightly because of his smile. He directed us in TNL, encouraged us, and gave us the best advice. How blessed we were to have him smile upon us for so many years. He was a great supporter of all of his students. He was a pillar of our society, and I will miss him. He would always greet me with a smile and a hug. He came to listen to The Moonlighters at every chance he had. To see him in the audience, smiling and cheering us on was a huge honor. He held my son, Jack, in his arms and shared his muffin with him at Tim's. He joked with me two years before when I was 9 months pregnant and asked me why I wasn't in the musical this year - haha. I was about to burst, and Jack was born the very next day. I had the honor of photographing him when he was given his honorary doctorate at Memorial University in 2013, and worked with him for every convocation ceremony that he played for, no matter how sick he was. I'll have tunes in my head forever that he planted there. He was always there. Corner Brook will not be the same without him. I just loved him.
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Chad Ford posted a condolence
Wednesday, July 3, 2019
My condolences to the family during this difficult time. I wanted to thank Gary for getting me involved in singing and acting here on the West coast after i finished nursing school. He reinvigorated my love for theatre and singing through our many shows as cast mates and music director. I also got to chat with him during his volunteer sessions at the nursing home and during his frequent visits to Tim's for a coffee. A very generous soul who always had time to stop for a chat, a bit of gossip or a laugh as well as a brilliant mind for teaching his passion for music to an untrained ear like myself. Thank you Gary for all you have done for this little outport boy who just loved to sing....
Godspeed my friend.
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Scott Barter posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 2, 2019
Gary was my mentor. A great teacher. My days at S.D.Cook during the 1970's were made joyous by him. I'll always remember taking care of the pets (Nina and Sharif) when he traveled. He taught me much about music but he also opened my eyes to art, books, food (coffee), decor, and fashion....not to mention the importance of politeness...decorum...humility...and above all else humor. Heaven is a little bit funnier now.
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Sherry and Paul White posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 2, 2019
Gary taught all of our five children and each and every one of them loved him. Heaven has gained an amazing choir director for his angels. Rest In Peace dear soul.
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Cory Buckle posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 2, 2019
Gary taught me music at Humber Elementary from 1991-1995. I performed in the choir, and other group functions over that time. We had lots of fun in his class playing musical games, and he always had the best stickers.
Really loved when we sang the Yellow Submarine in his class. He had so much joy for music, and he put his all into it.
Thoughts go out to family and friends.
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Sharon Hardy ( née Selby) posted a condolence
Monday, July 1, 2019
Rip Gary. He was our neighbour in Avonport. A very talented person. Remember him as my teacher when I sang in the Annapolis Valley music festival.
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June sharpe posted a condolence
Monday, July 1, 2019
So sorry to hear about Gary ‘s passing .. I was happy to see him when he was home ayear ago .47ayG
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Suzanne Sharpe posted a condolence
Monday, July 1, 2019
RIP Gary,
My grandmother Bernice Sharpe spoke very highly of his talent and was the best of friends with his mom. Condolences to his family and his friends.
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salley selby posted a condolence
Monday, July 1, 2019
My mother - in law Mary Selby always spoke so well of Gary. His talent and kindness was so memorable . My condolences to all who knew him.
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Camille ( Rogers) Herbin posted a condolence
Monday, July 1, 2019
Gary taught piano to many of us children growing up in Avonport before he left to pursue higher education. His mother Laura was a mainstay in our small church choir and we children were part of a junior choir at that time.
Avonport, Kings County, Nova Scotia was a small place but produced remarkable talent- so many families with rich musical heritage lived there- it is no wonder that the place was rich with music and speech arts like soliloquy at our school concerts and community socials!
We are proud to say Gary was one of our own. May he rest in Peace.
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Peter Byrne posted a condolence
Monday, July 1, 2019
Gary taught music. He taught many people to believe in the power of their own talent. He reached out and touched minds and many can attest to the inspiration they found from that. He was a true gentleman.
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Linda (Jenkins) Harnett posted a condolence
Sunday, June 30, 2019
I mourn the passing of Gary Graham, a good and decent man. I grieve for his family and friends whose hearts break over the loss of one so deeply loved. I grieve for his students for whom his loss is profound. I grieve for the children who will never experience the brilliance of his teaching and mentorship. I grieve for those whose lives he impacted through his kind deeds. I grieve for the city of Corner Brook where he enriched the lives of many through his gift of music. Gary Graham inspired countless numbers, both young and old, with his extraordinary talent and skill, his generous spirit and warm friendship. An immense loss for music and for humanity; his rare qualities will be intensely missed. A sad, sad day. Linda (Jenkins) Harnett (Herdman Collegiate 1966-1968)
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Eva Walsh VanBuskirk posted a condolence
Sunday, June 30, 2019
Fond memories of growing up with Gary in Avonport. He was pianist for Roy and I at our wedding 55+ years ago.He has made us all proud to have known him. Sympathy and condolences to his sister Barbara.
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Annie Bird posted a condolence
Sunday, June 30, 2019
To Barb and all who are saddened by Gary's passing. My
memories of Gary go way back to when in elementary school
he would perform on stage at concerts. Later on home visits
he would guest play the organ is church.
Ladies looked forward to his mother Laura's return following
visits to Gary in Newfoundland. One of her outstanding joys was
going shopping with Gary. When, upon her return we admired something
new she was wearing she proudly exclaimed that Gary had picked
it out. No doubt about it he had a natural flair for style and good taste.
Learning of Gary's passing has left me shocked and saddened.
The community of Avonport, Nova Scotia has been blest by so many
young people who grew up there. Now, remaining seniors are fewer
and fewer, unfortunately the same is true for following generations.
My thoughts are certainly with you Barb. Blessings - Annie
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Carolyn Lane lit a candle
Sunday, June 30, 2019
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In memory of a lovely man who we were lucky to meet and spend some time with while we were in Newfoundland. You will be missed.
From Carolyn, Shaun, Madison and Samantha Lane
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Beverley posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
I had the privilege of working with Gary for 4 years at Immaculate Heart of Mary School up until his diagnosis. He was a wonderful man. We all adored him because he was such a beautiful soul. Gary's passing has left a void in our school and no one will ever take his place.
I hope you have a beautiful heavenly choir my friend.
You are loved and missed by us all.
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Glenda Truitt posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
As a child, I had no concept of the scope of Gary's musical genius - I just knew him as "Mr. Graham, music teacher in Corner Brook". As an adult, I came to understand what a truly special and unique musical influence he was, and I have nothing but admiration and respect for "Mr. Graham". My condolences to his family and friends who had the privilege of knowing him in a very personal way. There's no way to measure what he's contributed to the lives of many. His legacy lives on in those who loved him and benefited from his tutelage.
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Margaret MacGibbon Veinott posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
Mr. Graham was my high school piano and choral music teacher, who inspired both my career and my love of great music. I was truly privileged to have been a student of Mr. Graham. My heart is full of gratitude and treasured memories.
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Bonita posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
Gary was a regular customer of mind at Tim's. He always had a smile on his face and was so nice to all of us. He had an amazing talent I had the pleasure of seeing him play. He will be greatly missed.
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Kaye Dimock Pottie posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
Gary grew up in Avonport, Kings County, Nova Scotia- just up the road from where I lived. I was closer to his sister Barbara’s age (older, that is) I watched his musical development through those early years. His talents were very obvious . He played the piano, he sang and he could really tap dance! Then he went to Acadia University where he showed his mischievous nature as well as developing his music skills. The last time I saw Gary was when I adjudicated his choirs in the Cornerbrook music festival. . He did beautiful choir work and it was obvious that he was respected and revered by students, parents and colleagues. I felt a real pride in his work- my neighbour from Avonport. I feel sad that he is gone but I recognize his outstanding legacy to the people of Cornerbrook and beyond. Viva la musica !
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Christopher Moore posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
Gary was a pillar of the arts community in Newfoundland who touched many many lives with his talents and generosity. My condolences go out to his family, friends and innumerable students upon whom he had a nurturing and lasting influence.
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Bud and Pat Goulding posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
So sad to hear about Gary's passing, he will be missed and remembered in Corner Brook forever. Both of our children, Tracey and Sandy were in his choirs /Sandy travelled with Gary overseas twice, a great experience for any young person.
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Barbara (Jess) Kane posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
Gary graduated with many of us from Horton District
High School located in Greenwich, Nova Scotia. When I visited Cornerbrook in 1976, the local news stated his choir was to perform in Europe during the coming summer. He was a friendly, joyful and an accomplished
student. He was someone you knew would go on to
advance the good in all who new him.
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Elizabeth and John Glover posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
"There's a new chef at Dhoon Lodge," Gary phoned me, "all the music teachers should get together for a luncheon." This was 1973; Gary, Neil, Heather, Michael, Verna , and, I think, Marjorie and Rex were there. This was an early meeting meeting of the NTA Music Council, western division. It was a beautiful lunch in the lovely surroundings of the log-cabin style Bowater lodge. Gary had told me about the new Loughlin school position that opened the year before.
Through his work, Gary came to know many Corner Brook families and all their relatives. He sent my choir member mother, Eileen, a luscious red velvet Valentine's Day card when she was 98. I still have it. He had already organized her 90th birthday party, hosted at her house by the United Church Senior Choir. They all had a blast - especially the seniors - wine and singing with Gary playing. Bartie hid away.
Gary looked really well when he visited Mom and us at home in St. John's in 2016.
We though we had many years left to see him agian.
I guess he wanted to be remembered that way. We did not get a chance to return the many rememberances he gave to us.
Everyone knows that, on earth, the angels play Bach, but , in heaven, they play Mozart. Hopefully we, now when we get to the golden shore, will be delighted with additional music, trumpet and piano duos by Gabriel and Graham.
Gary, I can still hear you laughing.
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Sandra Henneberry posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
He certainly was one of my more memorable teachers in the early 80's. (aside from my late Aunt Gladys Costella, of course)
Even though I couldn't carry a note to save my life, he gave me "hope" & fun trying, that one day, with a little practice, I possibly could :)
You will be missed by so many.
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Georgie (Cole) Macfie posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
I had Gary Graham as a teacher in high school and thoroughly enjoyed every minute under his guidance. He worked tirelessly with the Glee Club and Triple Trio leading us to win awards at the festivals. He was a true gentleman, one whose encouragement, kindness and gentleness will never be forgotten. My sincere condolences to his family. The world won't be the same without him.
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Blair Caines posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
Gary Graham was my piano teacher from when he arrived in Corner Brook until the mid-70s. I also performed in musical theatre productions (“South Pacific” ,“The Boyfriend”) and choirs that he directed. Gary was – and is still – an enormous influence on my love of classical music, musical theatre and all music in general. I am saddened at his passing but take comfort in the contributions he has made to my life and the community of Corner Brook. He was truly “one-of-a-kind”.
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Christine Chadderton posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
So many memories from the 1980s and 90s when I took part in tnl musicals and community choir along with Gary. Many late nights finishing off in the bar at the Glynmill Inn. One could not help but be encouraged to do your best and for Gary your best was expected and enough. He didn't seem to forget anyone and always greeted me with an hello how are you. I will miss our chance encounters and musical events. Rest in Peace you deserve your rest
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Paul and Renee (Marquis) Antle posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
So very sorry to hear of the passing of this beautiful human being. His musical presence will live forever, as will his essence as a kind and giving man in a world where such are rare.
Renee and Paul Antle
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Melvin Gill posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
Mr. Graham ( Gary). Never as a teacher, always as an acquaintance for the last 30 plus years. You'll always be remembered as a friendly, kind and pleasant man. Rest easy my friend. Deepest condolences.
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Chris Thistle-English posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
I was so sorry to hear of Mr. Graham’s passing. He was our new music teacher in grade 10 at Herdman Collegiate in 1968. A young man who had expectations of us, but was so kind, encouraging, and inclusive.
I was surprised to see he remembered me any time I ran into him when I was back visiting Corner Brook over the years.
His legacy lives on.
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Jean Mitchell posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
So saddened to hear of Mr Graham’s passing .Indeed he was a gentleman in every sense of the word . He will surely be missed . My condolences to his family and friends.
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Patty George posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
Mr. G. as we knew him in the later years, but Mr. Graham when I was in the high school choir, was the epitome of what music should be. It flowed out of him and he taught it to flow out of his students, whether choral, piano, etc. What a wonderful legacy he has left all of us. I treasure the memories of what he left me and what he did for my Mom also. My Mom thought the world of him and treasured his visits. Mr. G., you are missed and a place in all our hearts is aching. You gave so much to so many and for that I thank you. My deepest sympathy to his family and those who knew him best. God Bless.
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Ruth Andrews posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
Remarkable, wonderful & gentle, Gary Graham's unique soul inspired and graced all those who were blessed to know him. My love of music and singing in the United Church Choir (Gary's Singing Angels) can only be attributed to Gary and we will surely miss his beautiful character! Gary, I know you will lead Heaven in beautiful music! Rest In Peace.
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Linda Callahan posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
He was so well-liked. To have two institutions named after you says it all. The music industry lost a great teacher, family, friends and the community lost a great person. Our family's condolences to his family.
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Sharon Martin Bennett posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
My deepest sympathy to family, friends and students of Dr. GARY GRAHAM.
I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of our Herdman Collegiate High School Choir days under the tutelage of Dr. Graham. My memories of those days and seeing Dr. GRAHAM and his students perform at our church every Christmas in support of the Janeway and the Children s Wish Foundation have kept me singing through the greatest joys and deepest hurts of my life. He is an inspiration to all who love music and singing! His smile and warm HELLO every year at Christmas encouraged me to keep looking to see him and his beautifully trained students the following year. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him and respected him as a great teacher.
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Melanie (Power) Antweiler posted a condolence
Saturday, June 29, 2019
Mr Graham was my first school music teacher, when I attended SD Cook 1977-1979 (kindergarten through the first half of grade two). I still remember his enthusiasm, his energy, and his confidence. I’m sure my mom still has the photos of me singing in the school choir at the Arts and Culture Centre, a kindergartener, nervously fiddling with my floor-length, mint- green dress!
Flash forward twenty years, and I’m a doctoral student in British Columbia. While chatting with another member of a Coast-to-Coast research project, I learnt that Mr Graham was still teaching. Add another 15-ish years, when I found out about the Graham Academy through a friend whose child was studying there.
Forty years after leaving Corner Brook, I remain grateful for the love of music Mr Graham shared with me. Although my own children have not had the same opportunities for music education at school, between them, they have had violin, guitar, xylophone, and flute lessons, plus choir. This year, they both took flute lessons, and it made my heart happy to play my own flute along with them.
Mr Graham, your legacy lives on. Thank you for the music.
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Fern Mugford posted a condolence
Friday, June 28, 2019
My deepest condolences to the family was my music teacher in high school
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Lloyd Bonnell posted a condolence
Friday, June 28, 2019
I remember Gary as a distinctly decent and likeable human being. He had countless friends and very probably no enemies. May his legacy live long.
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Jackie Barrett posted a condolence
Friday, June 28, 2019
Gary Graham is not just a great friend to Corner Brook's Music and Fine Arts community, but also a friend of the Special Olympics Corner Brook family.
I best remember him for supporting me during the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Athens, Greece, when he attended along with my aunt, Annie Barrett.
From the Barrett Family, thank you for being a big part of the music, fine arts, and Special Olympics family.
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Rosalind House Cross posted a condolence
Friday, June 28, 2019
I knew Gary Graham as my piano teacher way back in 1968 and also as my high school choir director. In later years I felt I " knew" him a little more as a person vs than as a teacher. In both capacities he exuded a presence that I could never fully describe. I admired him and he made me smile. His legacy will live on and that is a wonderful thing!
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Gwen (Pollett) Walsh posted a condolence
Friday, June 28, 2019
Gary was my teacher in high school and my friend for 46 years. He worked behind the scenes with my father at the Arts and Culture Centre for many shows and recitals. When my dad died, his kind words buoyed me up. He truly was one of the most wonderful men I ever had the pleasure of knowing. My deepest condolences to his family. May the memories and his legacy give you peace and bring music to your hearts.
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Joan Peddle posted a condolence
Friday, June 28, 2019
Gary was the perfect example of how one should live life. Condolences to everyone affected by his passing. He will be missed.
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Anne Gillam Lewis posted a condolence
Friday, June 28, 2019
I was a student at Herdman Collegiate 1969-1970. Mr. Graham was the music teacher. He was so cheerful and enjoyed helping his students excell with music. I have all good memories of him. Rest In Peace.
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Debbie Sears lit a candle
Friday, June 28, 2019
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The family of Gary Fred Graham uploaded a photo
Friday, June 28, 2019
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