November 20, 1946 – April 11, 2025
On Friday, April 11, 2025, Gary went to be with his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, and is now rejoicing in His presence!! So, our tears are for us and not for him!!
Gary was born in Sault Ste. Marie, the second born son of Curt and Rita Gartshore. He leaves behind his wife Phyllis and his daughter Kim (Doug Kiezebrink), their 4 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. His older brother Wayne (Helen) preceded him in death in 2004. His younger brothers and sisters are Rick (Gay), Jan (Ted Light), Curt Jr. (Michelle), Ron (Sharon), Criss (Rick Rotondi) and Diane (Mark O’Donoghue). He will be remembered by treasured friend Doug Walker. His family was very special to him and he to them. (They were so happy when he married Phyllis with a daughter!!)
As a young Soo entrepreneur, he initially started as a commercial painting contractor then turned to something he loved more. What began as Algoma Arts & Crafts in 1971 developed into Gartshore Gallery. During this time, he met Native Artist Norval Morrisseau and had several art shows for him. Beyond the joy he found in the business, spending time in the bush was what gave him the most pleasure and enjoyment.
Gary moved to Upsala, Ontario in 1982 where he met and married Phyllis. In the spring of 1984, he opened The Beaver Post on Hwy. 17. From 1993 to 1998, Gary also managed the Ft. William Trading Post at the Old Fort William Historical Park. They returned to the Beaver Post in 1998 fulltime and continued there until 2022.
During his time at the Beaver Post, he was able to get out into the bush in the winter to hunt and trap. He occasionally took his younger boys in the community on winter camping trips teaching them survival and trapping skills. Moose meat was a frequent supper meal for his family and friends who shared the benefit of his love of hunting. One year he provided trophy size moose antlers for the Beaver Post back wall.
Thank you to all the family and friends who came so close in prayers and visits….and to all the medical staff who tended to him so professionally, unceasingly and gently in his battle with bone cancer.
God Bless and love to you all!!
Phyllis Gartshore and Family
Cremation has taken place in Thunder Bay. A Sault Ste. Marie celebration of his life will be held at a later date.