JOSEPH GARY GROLEAU
November 3, 1936 – November 23, 2022
Our Dad – an amazing husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle and friend – has passed away from this life.
With a cheery smile, and a wave of the hand, He has wandered into an unknown land. Think of him still as the same, I say: He is not gone – he is just away!
Dad “Gary” is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, our Mom, Joan (McNamara). Dad and Mom had a very fulfilling and loving life together and were always model parents and grandparents. Dad was at peace realizing he had a wonderful life and was grateful for all his blessings, especially having Mom in his life. He will be dearly missed by his sister Lorraine Richardson, his brother Clarke (Sue), his brother-in-law Michael McNamara (Chris), as well as the extended Groleau and McNamara families.
Dad was born in Hamilton to Frank and Faye (Clarke). He was a proud Hamiltonian for much of his younger life, growing up on Broadway Avenue in West Hamilton and attending Cathedral Boys High School, and meeting Mom at a dance at the St. Joseph’s School of Nursing in Hamilton. Dad was proud to work in Hamilton for much of his working career, holding positions at Studebaker, Tuckett (Imperial) Tobacco, Tridon, and Fluke Transport. Dad was a lifelong supporter of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and the Montreal Canadiens. He made many pilgrimages to the Montreal Forum to watch the Habs. He also loved junior hockey, attending many Hamilton Red Wing games at the old Barton Street Arena. Dad had a passion for coaching minor hockey in Burlington for many years, and enjoyed golfing with his buddies, especially with his best friend Larry Dennie (Donna).
Dad was an exemplary son. He loved his Mom and Dad, and always said, “you can never repay your parents for what they have done for you”. He made many trips to Utterson (Huntsville) to spend time with his parents who had retired there, and he looked after them in their later years. We cannot help but smile, thinking of Dad who is now reunited with his parents.
Dad was a wonderful father, and his family was his greatest love. His deep Catholic faith and values were the cornerstone of our very loving and happy home. Dad was the family’s protector; he was always there to listen and guided the four of us with his wisdom, having our best interests front and centre. When we were young, Dad would hold “family meetings” on occasion, to make certain we were on the right path. Dad had a sense of humour and was an originator of the famous “dad jokes” which today still brings a smile. Sports was always a prominent part of the Groleau household – Dad was our biggest fan and supporter as he attended our hockey games, gymnastics competitions, and soccer tournaments. He was a very proud and loving grandfather and great grandfather, and continued to instill important family values in our children.
Dad will always be remembered for his charm, and his kindness and consideration to others. He had a very special way of touching the lives of all whom he met by highlighting their individual unique gifts and contributions. Dad valued his many cherished friends and acquaintances, who will miss him greatly.
Donations to the Juravinski Cancer Centre – Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation; and or Joseph Brant Hospital Foundation would be sincerely appreciated by the families.
Private funeral arrangements have been made by the family, and a memorial mass will be announced at a future date.
We love you Dad (Grandpa and Great Grandpa) – you are our hero,
Lynne Pollard (Blair), Laurie Koudys (Randy), Mark (Elaine Bradbury), Paul (Tania Cascone), Sarah (Liam), Ashley, Lauren, Krista (Natalie), Joey (Carly), Daniel (Rebecca), Zoe, Ronan, Gordie, Reese, Lillia, and Kipton.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Gary Groleau Wednesday November 23rd 2022..
Death notice for the town of: , Province: Ontario