The family of Gary Bernard Salonen sadly announce his peaceful passing at the age of 86 on December 27th 2024 after a long battle with COPD. He was born February 3, 1938 in Port Arthur, Ontario. Gary attended Queen Elizabeth, Cornwall and Oliver Road Public Schools, graduated from Port Arthur Technical and Commercial (Hillcrest) high school in 1956, and Confederation College in 1989. Gary married his high school sweetheart, Josie (nee Chemko) on September 13, 1958.
His work career included positions with Northern Wood Preservers, Allan’s Auto Glass (Speedy Glass), and St. Joseph’s Care Group (Heritage) from where he retired.
Gary joined the Port Arthur Jaycees and became President and eventually a Senator. He was a long-time active member of Trinity United Church, and for many years volunteered at Shelter House. With Josie, he enjoyed working on weekend “Marriage Encounters” and “Engaged Encounters” at Avila Centre. They also liked to travel, having visited all ten Canadian Provinces, countries within Europe, and warm destinations.
Gary is survived by his loving wife Josie and their three children: Linda (Gary Schmidt) of Nelson, BC; Lisa (Bobby Peterson) of Sioux Lookout, David (Marie Holtved) of Kitchener, grandchildren Ben, Adam and Erika Schmidt, great granddaughter Eva Schmidt, all of Nelson, BC, brother Bill (Linda) of Dryden, nephew Richard and niece Deb of Kitchener. He was predeceased by his father Arvo, mother Katie, sister Susan, and son Richard in infancy.
A service to celebrate the life of Gary will be held Friday, January 3rd 2025 at 11:00 am at Trinity United Church. If friends so desire, donations may be made to Trinity United Church Memorial, or to a charity of your choice.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
