Gary Murray McKnight (Aka Bear)
Posted By Pacific Coast Cremation On May 20, 2020 @ 12:37 pm In Obituaries | 3 Condolences
April 8, 1956-May 6,2020
It is with great sadness that our beloved Bear passed away peacefully at age 64. In the last few years, Bear battled with health issues, which he was not able to overcome. His “amazing bride” Sharon McKnight, and a longtime friend, Brian Sneade, played a huge role in keeping him at home where he loved to be.
Born, raised and schooled in Victoria, Bear was a very proud Islander. Bear’s passion from an early age was sports of all kinds – playing, coaching and being an avid fan. He was an accomplished athlete and gamesman, playing field hockey, soccer, rugby, baseball, golf, bowling, darts and pool. He played on the “Antiques” ball team for many years until his knees could no longer allow it. Bear loved to follow professional sports – hockey (Toronto Maple Leafs), football (San Francisco 49ers), and baseball (Toronto Blue Jays) – often traveling with his brother Don to professional sports events, collecting his favourite team jerseys.
You could usually find Bear after work, playing a game or watching a game at the Ingy Pub, and later at My Bar, having a cold one in the company of friends and family. A social butterfly, funny, caring man with a big generous heart who donated his time and energy to those less fortunate or who needed help. He loved the outdoors and loved being the chief bbq’er. Had a great love for music – classic rock being his favourite genre. A strong, genuine spirit, who said and did things his way.
Bear began his working life as a dishwasher and cook at the White Spot at the old T&C shopping centre. He moved on to various careers in landscaping, long-time employee at Stocker’s Warehouse and Moving Company, Sear’s delivery guy, selling appliances, process serving and part owner of Cabuzzi Freight Company.
The eldest son of Clifford Alfred Moen and Doris Nina (Davies) McKnight, and grandson of his beloved Trixie and Ernie (all predeceased), Bear leaves behind his wife aka “sweetie” of 36 years, Sharon; sons Todd Etherington (Angie), Gary Glenn McKnight (Donna); brothers Don (Stacey), David; half-sister Tracey Manz (Rob); nieces Baylie, Keona, Meagan, Katrina and Alanna; grand-kids Graden and Ava; dad Gary McKnight; mother-in-law Ruth Zbitnew a loving 2nd mom to Bear; great friend Brian “Sam” Sneade; sister-in-law & friend Deb; and many other loving family members.
Bear, you are now pain free and without discomfort. You will be forever missed and never forgotten.
Sincerest thanks to all friends and relatives. Deepest gratitude and appreciation to nurses, care workers and medical health team. Desired donations in Bear’s memory may be made to Diabetes Canada or Kidney Foundation. A celebration of life will be planned to honour Bear when safe to have larger gatherings.
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My sincere condolences in the loss of your brother Don & Stacey..
Love Auntie Karen ❤️
I was friends with Gary in high school. We spent a lot of time together and had some good times. He was a good friend then and a lot of fun. My mother really liked Gary and loved to give him cookies & all kinds of food. I lost track of him when he moved schools. It is good to know he had so many who loved him and I am so sorry for your loss.
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So sorry to hear of Bears passing. Met him when he was a regular at the Ingy. What a guy. Infectious spirit that encompassed the room. Shared many a laughs. Hope you and Piggy are a toasting a couple together. Rest well my friend.
Condolences to Sharon, Don, Stacey, his family, and his many, many friends. You will be missed.
Rigby