Obituary of Gary Murray

H. Gary Murray was born on Nov 24, 1944 in Penobsquis and was the son of the late Donald and Doris (McCready) Murray. His childhood days were spent on the family farm with lots of places to roam and a variety of animals to entertain him. Having two older brothers, he was often the target of many pranks thus learning at an early age how to survive in difficult situations. At age five he jumped in a van driven by Uncle Jack or Fa-Fa Murray to Penobsquis Superior School where he started his "book learning". He soon realized reading and math wasn't much fun, so one recess he broke a window. He thought it was a great way to get an afternoon off. However, the teacher told him to go to the little store, get some glass and fix it. In Grade 9 he went to Sussex High. Since there were no yellow school buses, every day he hopped on the S.M.T bus and hitch-hiked home. During his high school years he was active in sports, both intramural and varsity hockey, volleyball and basketball. He also participated in Glee Club, square-dancing, student council and Key Club. His claim to fame was beating Frank McKenna in the 100 yard dash and, apparently, he still holds the King's County record. Gary went on to graduate in June of 1963. The week after graduating he immediately joined the Bank of Nova Scotia and began his twenty-two year career. In 1967, he married Patricia, his high school sweetheart. Quickly their lives became full of adventure; raising two children, accepting bank transfers and settling in a new community only to quickly move on again. Following his departure from the bank in 1985 Gary and his family moved to Sussex to support his recently widowed father-in-law. He subsequently followed in his footsteps joining the General Motors family for the next 30 years. Gary was a family man. He could do anything a mom could do and more. He played, he teased and chauffeured to all activities. Over the years many family memories were created: camping, hunting, fishing, ski-dooing, cross country skiing, driving to Florida and across Canada, were just a few of the cherished memories made. Trips to theater and the symphony also made for some memorable moments. Gary enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, watching them grow and doing the same types of activities he did with Paula and Damon. Having fun was the focus, even during a spirited game of cards. He was also community minded; a member of Jaycees, Kinsmen, Lions Club and several churches around the province. He loved cards, church league hockey, dancing and having a good laugh. Many a story was told about fishing, hunting and the occasional party with his buddies and co-workers. In the last fourteen years his two favorite spots were "his little piece of heaven", his home at Cassidy Lake, and "his place of rest and tranquility", Bali Hai, Anna Marie Island, Florida. He loved people. When he walked in a room, you would know he was there. He could be a gentleman or a character. He had a good sense of humor, was witty and entertaining. His spirit lives in the memories and many stories of his treasured family and friends. Gary will be sadly missed by his wife Patricia, daughter Paula (James), son Damon, granddaughter Kelsey, grandsons Jared and Tyler, sister Donna Stultz (Tom), brother Edwin (Donna), brother John (Nancy), aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends he called family. Through these difficult times, his faith shone through. He prepared his way and said "when God comes I'll trudge along behind". Rest in peace until we meet again. Mr. Gary Murray of Cassidy Lake passed away on June 18, 2015 at the age of 70. Arrangements have been entrusted to the compassionate care of Wallace Funeral Home, 34 Sunnyside Drive, Sussex, (506-433-1176) where visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2015 from 6-8pm. A service celebrating Gary's life will be held from Wallace Community Chapel on Wednesday, June 24, 2015 at 11:30am. If you are considering making a memorial donation the family has recommended the Southfield Church. www.wallacefuneralhome.com