March 27, 1953 – February 16, 2021
Gary passed peacefully at home with his loved ones by his side after a lengthy illness at age 67.
Gary, lovingly remembered, and sadly missed by his wife Val (nee Watkins) and her son Clinton (Melissa) Manning, Granddaughters’ Emma & Abby; his mother Mary Viola and sister Sharon; 3 daughters Angel, Danielle, Rebecca; Grandchildren Justin (Richelle), Delillah, Alaric, Kristina, Bradley, Paige, Sophie-Lyn, Ryker; Great-Grandchildren Axel, Kaelan, Kinsley. His brother Gordon (Addie) & nephew Michael (Whitney); Niece Tara; Great nephew Kaden, Great Niece Lacey. His in-laws Stan and Betty Watkins, Cam (Al), Charles (Wanda), Angela, Neal (Louise); Niece Cara; Nephews Mitchell, Mackenzie (Emma), Daniel (Deborah), Leigh (Shannon), Carter; Great nieces Chloe, Isabella, Payton.
He also leaves to mourn many other friends and family.
Gary was born March 27th, 1953 in Winnipeg, MB to Peter and Mary Viola Sumka. He was predeceased by his father, Peter Sumka in 1964, by his nephews Lane Watkins and Andrew Watkins. He spent most of his childhood days with his brother Gordon and little sister Sharon.
Gary graduated from Sisler High School in 1971. He married in 1971 and had 3 daughters (Angela, Danielle, Rebecca); and later divorced. Gary entered Red River Community College in 1971, where he graduated with his Engineering Technology Diploma. Gary worked on large scale computer systems upon graduation. Before moving to Toronto in 1978 where he worked as a Certified Engineer Technologist with UNISYS, Gary he delivered his German Shepherd “Shep” with her doghouse to his brother Gordon and wife Addie’s home in Sundance Manitoba, a 1000 mile round trip. He cared for his pets. For the next five years he completed several post-collegial certificates in computer engineering. In 1979, Gary returned home to Manitoba where he continued to work in the computer technology service industry. His most recent endeavor was with NERDS Onsite where he provided support solutions to residential and small business users. This is where Gary’s passion for helping others created long lasting relationships. He was known for not only providing knowledgeable support, but also for his generous heart.
29 years ago, Gary met Val on a blind date. It was a St. Patrick’s Day celebration at the Palomino Club chaperoned by his Sister-in-law Addie and Brother Gordon. Apparently those red cowboy boots of Val’s made an impression during those 2-steppin dates as they were married a few years later. Gary’s love language was spoken through his actions. He was a very attentive and caring husband ensuring that Val was taken care of and well looked after. He set a high standard in the world of husbandry.
Gary was known for his quick wit and smirk; his kindness and generosity with his talent and time. Gary was a man of integrity and dedication. He was ready and willing to help wherever and whenever he could. He was always volunteering for early bird pick-ups at the airport for family; driving Clint to 7am hockey practices and games all over the City; helping family and friends with computer support; helping his father-in-law, Stan with mechanics and gardening (which was another passion of his!) Gary was not only a jack of all trades; he was also a master of them. If he couldn’t fix it, it was most likely beyond repair.
He enjoyed curling, fishing, baseball, skiing and gardening. Val taught Gary how to curl, which, like all other things he learned quickly. As a fellow curler shared, “Those of us fortunate enough to play with him over the years will miss his easy going personality and sense of humor on and off the ice.” Kevin N – Assiniboine Curling Club
Growing his tomatoes was a yearly event from seed to fruit. Gary shared his tomato plants with family and friends who looked forward to receiving them every year. His joy of gardening was contagious as he shared this with his granddaughter’s Emma and Abby. He was also a Master Angler. Gary and Val enjoyed their adventures up north fishing with friends and family. Fishing in the dark was not out of the question. This summer Gary’s last fishing trip was with his nephew Michael. They went Catfishing and managed to catch a large Cat. It made Gary’s day.
Very Special Thanks to Holly Macklem, Cam Watkins, Melissa Manning, Gordon and Addie Sumka. Also the Palliative Care Nurses – Trish; the Home Care Team; And Dr. Mohammad. I am so Grateful for all your help.
Gone Fishin’
I’ve finished life’s chores assigned to me,
So put me on a boat headed out to sea.
Please send along my fishing pole
For I’ve been invited to the fishin’ hole.
Where every day is a day to fish,
To fill your heart with every wish.
Don’t worry, or feel sad for me,
I’m fishing with the master of the sea.
To all of those that think of me,
Be happy as I go out to sea.
If others wonder why I’m missin’
Just tell’em I’ve gone fishin’.
35 thoughts on “Gary Harold Sumka”
It was my pleasure to enjoy my Friday nights curling with Gary . He was a good friend who’s company I enjoyed. He will be deeply missed by all.
Lloyd
Thank you Lloyd!
All the years that I curled against Gary at Assiniboine he was a very quiet and a great sportsman. He was always friendly and never had a bad word to say about anyone. I remember when the four of them joined the Friday night curling, Gary, Val, Addie and Gordon. They were a very good team to curl against, always polite. He will be missed very much. Our deepest sympathy to you Val.
Alf and Iris Clairmont
Thank you Alf and Iris
Wishing you peace, comfort and hope in the midst of your sorrow, Our deepest sympathy. Prayers and thoughts are with you. May the beautiful memories you have stay with you forever. I cherish the memories and fun times that we had when you stayed at the farm on weekends in Meleb at Auntie Anne’s with Gordon, Sharon and your Mom. Rest in Peace.
Cousin Sally and Tom Shymko
Thank you Sally and Tom, he often talked about the good times on the farm.
Val, so very sorry for your loss to you and your family. May all the happy memories you all shared over the years assist you all in getting through this difficult time.
Thank you Denise
Val, Shanlee and I were so sorry to hear about Gary’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time. Words are never adequate in moments like these. We will say though, that our hearts go out to you, and we will always remember Gary fondly and have wonderful memories of many times spent at the curling club. We hope that the love of family and friends will comfort and strengthen you in the days ahead. Bob and Shanlee Johnson.
Thank you Bob and Shanlee
I am so, so sad to learn of Gary’s passing. Gary helped me for many years with my computer setups, bugs, fixes…anything. He was so kind and always offered great advice. I wish he could know how special I thought he was. I spoke to Gary just before the start of Covid. He was going to teach me how to get pictures from old phones onto my desktop. He never talked down to this technically challenged 75 year old lady. I don’t have to tell his family what a special person he was. They know…I’m so sorry for your loss. God Bless…
Thank you Diane
I had the pleasure of working with Gary at DEC. I also played slow pitch with him. He was a very good peer at work and a strong pitcher in slow pitch.
Myron Chuchmuch
Thank you Myron
Although I only got to play a short while on Gary’s curling team at Friday Night Funlovers it was obvious what a gentleman and great sports person he was. Jeff and I are saddened at his loss and extend our sincere sympathies to Val and all those who loved him. May your special memories expressed in this beautiful memorial carry you through in the times ahead – Jeff and Valorie Church
Thank you Valorie and Jeff
Nothing but fond memories of Gary. Whether missing a shot or making a great shot at curling, his demeanor never changed. Very much the gentleman and will be greatly missed!
Thank you Bruce and Maureen
I remember Gary from my time working at the Air Canada Operations Centre where he was the go-to UNISYS technician for getting things fixed. My condolences to his family.
Thank you Brad
Val, We are so very sorry to hear about Gary and so very sorry for your loss. Gary was such a gentleman and a truly nice guy. It was a real pleasure to curl with him. He will be greatly missed.
Frank and Lorena Clairmont
Thank you Frank and Lorena
I was so honoured when you and Gary asked me to perform your wedding service. We managed to see each other throughout the years, usually at Gord and Addie’s place. After I lost Brian, Gary came to my home and helped me with computer issues. Being technically challenged, he was such a huge help. When I offered to pay him for his time, he would not accept a dime. That said a lot about Gary’s generosity. Val, this will feel like you are in an abyss. Trust me. Time helps heel. Keep your wonderful memories alive forever as you will always have them in your heart. All of my prayers and best thoughts to you, Gord and Addie and you ur family.
Jo-Anne, thank you for your kind words.
My condolences to the family. My memories of Gary go back to our Shaughnessay Park school days. We were friends through elementary school and high school. He was what everyone would call a very nice guy. That was so true. I remember when we arrived at SislerHigh and were randomly assigned band instruments that we had to learn to play. We were likely hoping for drums or guitar and I complained about being assigned the unglamorous trombone. Gary said “what are you complaining about , they gave me the tuba. “. You were a very good friend to me throughout our school days., I regret we did not see each other after graduating from school except for a few chance meetings on the street. Gordon and Sharon please know I am thinking very fondly about your brother today. Michael Luzny
Thank you Michael
Val, Clint, Melissa, Emma and Abby,
We are so saddened by Gary’s loss to your family. He was always helpful whether it was computer issues, preparing for a wedding or doing electrical work. Gary was a wonderful, caring Grandpa to Emma and Abby. It was a pleasure getting to know Gary. Know that we are here for you, Val.
Thank You Cheryl and Ron
Gone too soon. You will be missed Gary. We curled , fished, played ball and worked together for years. There was also a bit of partying too. I had a lot of fun over the years.
Yes we had a lot of fun, Thank you Don
My condolences to Val and the rest of the family. I worked with Gary on many occasions during his tenure with Sperry/Unisys. He was one of the brightest techs I’ve worked with. I enjoyed his sharp wit, quick tongue and technical mind. RIP Gary.
Thank you Mel
I love Gary, my dear brother-in-law and deeply grieve his passing. Even though I cannot be there with you, Val and the Sumka family to give you warm HUGS, I am weeping with you. Gary was an anchor, steadfast, persevering through life storms.
I admired Gary as he was a true gentleman, a loving husband to you, role model for Clint, and an accomplished man in all he did.
Gary helped me in so many ways – I am grateful for his sound advice, opening up his home for me to stay several times, always going the extra mile to the airport and storing my belongings. Once he tried to help me with the 2-step but sadly I couldn’t keep time. I am honored to know Gary and thankful he was part of our family.
Praying God’s compassion and grace upon you dear Sister.
Thank you Angie for your memories, Gary loved helping and spending time with you.
I love Gary, my dear brother-in-law and deeply grieve his passing. Even though I cannot be there with you, Val and the Sumka family to give you warm HUGS, I am weeping with you. Gary was an anchor, steadfast, persevering through life storms. I admired Gary as he was a true gentleman, a loving husband to you, role model for Clint, and an accomplished man in all he did. Gary helped me in so many ways – I am grateful for his sound advice, opening up his home several times, always going the extra mile to the airport and storing my belongings. Once he tried to help me with the 2-step but sadly I couldn’t keep time. I am thankful Gary was part of our family. Praying God’s compassion and grace upon you dear Sister.