I knew Gary through my work as a contractor. We got to know each other as I renovated his bathrooms. I have fond memories our coming up with the concept for his “all black bathroom!” He regaled me with stories as I worked, which I so enjoyed and we shared an off coloured joke or two.
He was an amazing man and I admired him greatly.
I’m having a standing ovation just for you Gary,
Carl.
A sad fact of life is that you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone. While we were more than ten years apart in age and led very different lives, Gary was the best brother a girl could ask for. Looking back through old files, I remembered that he arranged for ballet lessons for me when I was 6, even though the entire family recognized that I was the biggest clutz on earth. When the family visited him in SanFrancisco, he carved out time for just the two of us to ride the trolley cars and shop for a fancy red satin shirt and bell bottoms for my Christmas gift. How many kids had a brother fly them to New York for their 8th grade graduation? I remember the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, the Rockettes, and my first (but certainly not last) visit to a bar. I remember mom sobbing at the end of his performances in Detroit. She always said he must have been mixed up in the hospital, because such a talent could certainly never come from our family. I came across his letters today, written at all different stages in my life, warning me about drugs, boys, and, not becoming “Hilda House Wife.” He wanted to be an older, nonjudgmental friend, but also asked me to take it easy on mom and dad as they got older. I am so grateful to Gary’s “other family” - his many friends who are helping us get through this loss. Their love and admiration for Gary, not just for his talent, but for his spirit and generosity, are so gratifying to hear. Thanks to all of you...you know who you are! My god, I was lucky to have a brother who loved me and my kids so very much. I’m going to miss him more than I thought possible. Thank you so much for everything, Gary.
I first met Gary when he moved to Toronto (1983??).
We met when he came to see my apartment which I wanted to sub-let. Gary decided on the spot it was what he wanted and the deal was done! What we didn’t know was that was the moment a long and very dear friendship was to begin. Over the years, we’ve shared so much fun, laughter, and good times. To mention only a few qualities, Gary was a fine person, a wonderful cook, a gifted actor and singer, and loyal friend. He will be dearly missed.
Miss him terribly....love him so much!
Gary was always so kind to me, as a friend, and actor, and also as a songwriter starting out. I loved running into him in the street, seeing him at one of his cabarets, and hearing his stories. He was so generous to me with his time! Gary, you will be missed.