Obituary of Gary Getschow

February 26, 1953 - Evanston, Illinois, USA

September 20, 2021 - Calgary, Alberta

Gary Getschow of Calgary, AB, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, September 20, 2021 at the age of 68 years.

Gary was born in Evanston, Illinois, on February 26, 1953, to parents, Jean and Roy Getschow. He was loved and cherished by his mom and dad. Everyone who ever met him, loved him, with his sunny disposition Gary could always make you feel good and brighten your day. He was an inspiration to all who crossed his path, relishing the simple joys in life, Gary could always find something positive about anything. One of the few people that were truly polite, honest, selfless, and a genuine blessing to know. His life was being selfless to all he met; he was always asking if there was something he could do to help, and never asking anything in return except a smile. Gary and his sister Judy were best friends, like “peas and carrots”, they lived together for sixteen years and share so many wonderful adventures and memories. “If we could all be Gary for a day the world would be a better place”, his life mattered and he was humble in everyway. He loved his mother very much, calling her to the USA very single day until her passing. Gary treasured all animals; he was gentle and caring to every single one. His favourite job was delivering flyers door to door where he could connect with the community, and always throw a “Good Morning, Ma’am/Sir” to those he saw. He will be sadly missed by his family, friends, and the whole community. Gary was a blessing and gift to his sister and everyone who crossed his path.

Gary is survived by his loving sister and best friend Judy, he will be dearly missed by his siblings in the USA, two sisters, Nancy, and Melinda; two brothers, Glenn, and George; and fifteen nieces and nephews. Gary was predeceased by his mother Jean, and father Roy.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church (5340 – 4th Street S.W., Calgary, AB) on Saturday, October 9, 2021 at 11:30 a.m.Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Mr. Getschow’s service streamed live through the following link the day of the service, https://youtu.be/0awAgaJLF9k.  Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed here. If friends so desire, in support of Gary’s love for animals, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Calgary Humane Society, 4455 – 110th Avenue S.E., Calgary, AB  T2C 2T7, Telephone: (403)205-4455, www.calgaryhumane.ca. 

In living memory of Gary Getschow, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.