It is with profound sadness and heart break that the family of Gary Lenard Nelson of Red Rock, Ontario, wish to announce his passing on Augusts 8th at the Nipigon District Memorial Hospital after a short battle of leukemia.
Gary moved to Red Rock from Schreiber at the age of 11 and made Red Rock his permanent home. He worked at the Pulp Mill in Red Rock for 40 years before he retired.
He was very dedicated to his community and was awarded the Ontario Volunteer Service Award for 50 years of volunteer service within Red Rock. He was also nominated by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities for the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his contributions to the Community of Red Rock. He was a Town Councillor for many years and then eventually Mayor, before retiring in 2021. Over the years he had been on the Red Rock Volunteer Fire Dept., Teen Town, Beautification Committee and a member of the Masonic Lodge 672; along with many more community events and committees.
He spent countless Summers in his younger years at Walker’s Lake before finally calling Stewart Lake his Summer home.
He loved nothing more than spending time with his grandchildren who were his greatest joy and meant the World to him.
He is survived by his loving wife Betty, of 59 years. His daughter Tamara (Rodney) Barr and son Jamie Nelson. Grandchildren Mitchell (Nicole Verville) Barr; Alex (Danielle) Barr; Amber Smith-Nelson; Jayla Nelson and Ryker Nelson. Great-grandchildren Charlie Smith-Nelson and Tenleigh Barr. His brother Glenn (Shirley) Nelson; sister Marie Maskell; sister-in-law Bonnie (Bert) Salminen and numerous nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his parents Charles and Martha; brothers David and Gerald; sisters Mavis and Merle; sister-in laws Edith and Dorothy; brother-in laws Ray, Ed, Henry and Ross.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life for family and friends will be held on August 15th, 2024, at the Red Rock Legion Branch 226, 43 Salls St., Red Rock. Drop in anytime between 1:00-3:00pm.
If so desired, in lieu of flowers, donations to the Red Rock Beautification Committee would be greatly appreciated.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
