In memory of
Eric Frederick Gailus
September 23, 1951 - January 20, 2026
It is with a broken heart that I announce the passing of Eric Frederick George Gailus. Eric died peacefully in the comfort of his home with Mary, his life partner of 30 years at his side. He fought mesothelioma for a year with all his strength and determination but was unable to win this battle.
Eric is predeceased by his mother Lydia (Tsukornyk) and his father Roland (Roly) Gailus.
He leaves behind a daughter (Rebecca and her daughter Rianna) and stepdaughter Zoe.
Eric was born in Toronto and was educated at York and the University of Toronto.
Most would describe Eric, also known as Rick, to be a prolific storyteller, Renaissance man, generous, talkative, eclectic, mentor, architect, builder, project manager, avid traveller, and collector of oddities just to name a few. When Eric injured his back many years ago working on stage sets, he was hospitalized for a significant period of time. During this time he decided to join the teaching profession and for 27 years he passed on his skills with enthusiasm and a confident approach to teaching Industrial Arts. His excellent repertoire of shop skills and knowledge of related theory, provided a solid support for his lessons.
Eric had the ability to converse with anyone on most topics. Antique cars were his passion, in particular his 1954, black Volkswagen Beetle. His significant robot collection and all things Victorian were inspired by his mentor Mr. Thomas Piper a master craftsman. His love of all genres of music came naturally, as his mother Lydia was an accomplished violinist and pianist.
Eric had a presence that inspired those around him. His quirky humour, sweet smile and big hugs were endearing and will be missed along with any opportunity for him to make a speech whether it be made at a birthday, wedding, retirement, etc. A speech by Eric was an honour with his commanding voice which came naturally from being a high school teacher. One of Eric's favourite sayings was "If nothing else, we have our stories" and "What is the Meaning of Life"? He lived a good life and lived it well though he would have preferred to have more time to spend with Mary and friends sipping a few Pinot Grigio's and carrying on stimulating conversations in the backyard at "The Cottage" on a warm summer's day.
There is comfort in knowing he is now at peace carrying with him good vibrations into the great beyond.
Thank you to all his friends for their support throughout his illness. Thanks also to the Princess Margaret Palliative Care doctors and nurses. In lieu of flowers and if you wish, please make a donation to the Canadian Mesothelioma Foundation for research to find a cure for this rate and fatal disease.
Cremation has taken place per his wishes and a "Tribute to Eric" will be held on Sunday, March 1, 2026, 3-5pm at the Mount Pleasant Funeral Centre, 375 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto. Ample parking is available at the Centre.
Eric is predeceased by his mother Lydia (Tsukornyk) and his father Roland (Roly) Gailus.
He leaves behind a daughter (Rebecca and her daughter Rianna) and stepdaughter Zoe.
Eric was born in Toronto and was educated at York and the University of Toronto.
Most would describe Eric, also known as Rick, to be a prolific storyteller, Renaissance man, generous, talkative, eclectic, mentor, architect, builder, project manager, avid traveller, and collector of oddities just to name a few. When Eric injured his back many years ago working on stage sets, he was hospitalized for a significant period of time. During this time he decided to join the teaching profession and for 27 years he passed on his skills with enthusiasm and a confident approach to teaching Industrial Arts. His excellent repertoire of shop skills and knowledge of related theory, provided a solid support for his lessons.
Eric had the ability to converse with anyone on most topics. Antique cars were his passion, in particular his 1954, black Volkswagen Beetle. His significant robot collection and all things Victorian were inspired by his mentor Mr. Thomas Piper a master craftsman. His love of all genres of music came naturally, as his mother Lydia was an accomplished violinist and pianist.
Eric had a presence that inspired those around him. His quirky humour, sweet smile and big hugs were endearing and will be missed along with any opportunity for him to make a speech whether it be made at a birthday, wedding, retirement, etc. A speech by Eric was an honour with his commanding voice which came naturally from being a high school teacher. One of Eric's favourite sayings was "If nothing else, we have our stories" and "What is the Meaning of Life"? He lived a good life and lived it well though he would have preferred to have more time to spend with Mary and friends sipping a few Pinot Grigio's and carrying on stimulating conversations in the backyard at "The Cottage" on a warm summer's day.
There is comfort in knowing he is now at peace carrying with him good vibrations into the great beyond.
Thank you to all his friends for their support throughout his illness. Thanks also to the Princess Margaret Palliative Care doctors and nurses. In lieu of flowers and if you wish, please make a donation to the Canadian Mesothelioma Foundation for research to find a cure for this rate and fatal disease.
Cremation has taken place per his wishes and a "Tribute to Eric" will be held on Sunday, March 1, 2026, 3-5pm at the Mount Pleasant Funeral Centre, 375 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto. Ample parking is available at the Centre.
Funeral Details
Show location:
Celebration of Life
Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Centres
375 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, ON, CANADA, M4T 2V8
Get Directions
Sunday, 1 Mar 2026 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Info: Enter the cemetery through the East gates off Mount Pleasant Rd and follow signs for funeral centre. A detailed map of the cemetery can be found under Media > Documents at the top of this page.