Gary Harold Sumka
February 25, 2021
March 27, 1953 – February 16, 2021
Gary passed peacefully at home with his loved ones by his side after a lengthy illness at age 67.
Gary, lovingly remembered, and sadly missed by his wife Val (nee Watkins) and her son Clinton (Melissa) Manning, Granddaughters’ Emma & Abby; his mother Mary Viola and sister Sharon; 3 daughters Angel, Danielle, Rebecca; Grandchildren Justin (Richelle), Delillah, Alaric, Kristina, Bradley, Paige, Sophie-Lyn, Ryker; Great-Grandchildren Axel, Kaelan, Kinsley. His brother Gordon (Addie) & nephew Michael (Whitney); Niece Tara; Great nephew Kaden, Great Niece Lacey. His in-laws Stan and Betty Watkins, Cam (Al), Charles (Wanda), Angela, Neal (Louise); Niece Cara; Nephews Mitchell, Mackenzie (Emma), Daniel (Deborah), Leigh (Shannon), Carter; Great nieces Chloe, Isabella, Payton.
He also leaves to mourn many other friends and family.
Gary was born March 27th, 1953 in Winnipeg, MB to Peter and Mary Viola Sumka. He was predeceased by his father, Peter Sumka in 1964, by his nephews Lane Watkins and Andrew Watkins. He spent most of his childhood days with his brother Gordon and little sister Sharon.
Gary graduated from Sisler High School in 1971. He married in 1971 and had 3 daughters (Angela, Danielle, Rebecca); and later divorced. Gary entered Red River Community College in 1971, where he graduated with his Engineering Technology Diploma. Gary worked on large scale computer systems upon graduation. Before moving to Toronto in 1978 where he worked as a Certified Engineer Technologist with UNISYS, Gary he delivered his German Shepherd “Shep” with her doghouse to his brother Gordon and wife Addie’s home in Sundance Manitoba, a 1000 mile round trip. He cared for his pets. For the next five years he completed several post-collegial certificates in computer engineering. In 1979, Gary returned home to Manitoba where he continued to work in the computer technology service industry. His most recent endeavor was with NERDS Onsite where he provided support solutions to residential and small business users. This is where Gary’s passion for helping others created long lasting relationships. He was known for not only providing knowledgeable support, but also for his generous heart.
29 years ago, Gary met Val on a blind date. It was a St. Patrick’s Day celebration at the Palomino Club chaperoned by his Sister-in-law Addie and Brother Gordon. Apparently those red cowboy boots of Val’s made an impression during those 2-steppin dates as they were married a few years later. Gary’s love language was spoken through his actions. He was a very attentive and caring husband ensuring that Val was taken care of and well looked after. He set a high standard in the world of husbandry.
Gary was known for his quick wit and smirk; his kindness and generosity with his talent and time. Gary was a man of integrity and dedication. He was ready and willing to help wherever and whenever he could. He was always volunteering for early bird pick-ups at the airport for family; driving Clint to 7am hockey practices and games all over the City; helping family and friends with computer support; helping his father-in-law, Stan with mechanics and gardening (which was another passion of his!) Gary was not only a jack of all trades; he was also a master of them. If he couldn’t fix it, it was most likely beyond repair.
He enjoyed curling, fishing, baseball, skiing and gardening. Val taught Gary how to curl, which, like all other things he learned quickly. As a fellow curler shared, “Those of us fortunate enough to play with him over the years will miss his easy going personality and sense of humor on and off the ice.” Kevin N – Assiniboine Curling Club
Growing his tomatoes was a yearly event from seed to fruit. Gary shared his tomato plants with family and friends who looked forward to receiving them every year. His joy of gardening was contagious as he shared this with his granddaughter’s Emma and Abby. He was also a Master Angler. Gary and Val enjoyed their adventures up north fishing with friends and family. Fishing in the dark was not out of the question. This summer Gary’s last fishing trip was with his nephew Michael. They went Catfishing and managed to catch a large Cat. It made Gary’s day.
Gone Fishin’
I’ve finished life’s chores assigned to me,
So put me on a boat headed out to sea.
Please send along my fishing pole
For I’ve been invited to the fishin’ hole.
Where every day is a day to fish,
To fill your heart with every wish.
Don’t worry, or feel sad for me,
I’m fishing with the master of the sea.
To all of those that think of me,
Be happy as I go out to sea.
If others wonder why I’m missin’
Just tell’em I’ve gone fishin’.
Very Special Thanks to
Holly Macklem
Cam Watkins
Melissa Manning
Gordon and Addie Sumka
Also
The Palliative Care Nurses – Trish
The Home Care Team
And
Dr. Mohammad
I am so Grateful for all your help
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Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Gary Harold Sumka March 27 1953 – February 16 2021..
Voyage Funeral Homes & Crematorium
Décès pour la Ville: Winnipeg, Province: Manitoba