Obituary of Gary Neil Baltas

March 19, 1944 – Jasper, Alberta

March 31, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Gary Baltas, the beloved husband of Jean Baltas (nee Celis), passed away on Sunday, March 31, 2024, at the age of 80 years, in Calgary, AB. His wife Jean, and daughters, Jennifer Siskowic and Sarah Shearwood, were by his side. 

Gary was born in Jasper, AB, and spent much of his childhood and adolescent years in Hanna, AB, where his parents spent the remainder of their days. He later put down roots in Calgary, where he eventually started his family. 

He graduated from Hanna High School and went on to travel the world as a young man. Gary pursued his dream career as a Seismic Explorer in the jungles of Indonesia, Nigeria, Guyana, Colombia, and Belize, among other places. He also enjoyed making fine wine, cooking his favourite dish, Indonesian curry, taking twice-daily walks, reading several books at the same time, and keeping up with current events in his free time. He especially enjoyed keeping in touch with his grandchildren and loved watching them grow up.

One of Gary's most memorable vacations was when he travelled to the Philippines at the age of 38 to meet his pen pal, Jean, who would soon later become his wife. Together, they were blessed with two gorgeous daughters and three wonderful grandchildren, Joey, Isabelle, and Alex.

Gary will be lovingly remembered by his wife Jean Baltas, daughters, Jennifer (Cameron) Siskowic and Sarah (Michael) Shearwood; sister Dolly Garlock, and numerous other family members and friends.

He is predeceased by his mother Jessie Baltas, father Oliver Baltas, and brother Kenneth Baltas.
 

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at McInnis & Holloway (Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB) on Saturday, April 6, 2024, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Reception to follow at the Celis Residence at 6:00 p.m.

The family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to all who have visited, and offered assistance or kind words during this difficult time. Special thanks to Michele and Sharon of Unit 112 Neurosciences at Foothills Medical Center for their exceptional care, and to the First Responders, Kathleen Celis, Kyle, and Dr. Maria Celis, for their prompt response and care. We are forever grateful to Bereket and Ghenet Ghebremesical and family for always treating Gary like family.

Gary will be most remembered for his kind and generous spirit. He was always ready to lend a hand and help when needed. Gary, along with Jean, sponsored the majority of the Celis family to immigrate from the Philippines to Canada, exhibiting his selfless and caring nature. Gary was recently awarded the title of "Snow Angel", by his neighbour Bob. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

"We've loved him in life, let's not forget in death; honoured and remembered every living breath." - Langston Hughes

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Gary’s family here.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes would be much appreciated to assist the Baltas family during this difficult and grievous time. Monetary contributions can be made to josephisabelle@hotmail.com. 

In living memory of Gary Baltas, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.