Passed away suddenly on September 8, 2025 at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre after a long, courageous battle with cancer. His desire to live was a testament to his strong character, love for family and faith in God. After bravely staring down cancer in the face for many years, he was given three months. He stoically pushed forward with the loving support of his friends and family for over 3 more years. His faith was not shaken and his spirit was not broken.
Gary was the loving husband and soulmate of Madeline for 51 years, adored father to Chris (Shonalee) and Brad (Kellie), cherished grandfather of Mikayla, Aliyah, Kaelyn, Ava, Alyssa, and Max. Dear brother of David (Catherine), Darla (Glenn Ehnisz), Tony (Betty), Judy Tomanek, Sheila (John Bowey), Laura (Morris Miller), and Carol (Kevin Hycha). Lovingly remembered by his many nieces and nephews.
Gary had a long, successful career in retail dedicating over 30 years with Sears Canada where he led the Canadian electronics and appliances division. One of his greatest success stories was his contributions to the development of the Kenmore brand.
Gary was an avid fisherman and gardener. There was never a project too big or too small that he wouldn’t tackle, from design to build, whether it was renovations, landscape construction or fabrication. His passions were taught to his sons through many fishing adventures and home projects.
A mass of Christian burial will take place on Tuesday, September 16 at 1:30pm at Guardian Angels Church 115 West Street N, Orillia. A reception luncheon for friends and family to follow at Carson Funeral Home 54 Coldwater St. E, Orillia.
In lieu of flowers, donations to RVH’s Hudson Regional Cancer Centre or The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation are appreciated by the family as we continue to pursue a cure for cancer. Online condolences may be expressed at www.carsonfuneralhomes.com
The service will be livestreamed. Please click on the link to go to the service at https://youtube.com/live/U663T3dw_EE?feature=share
Condolences
Idelta and Rui
Sep 16, 2025Dear Madeline and family, Our deepest condolences, may Gary rest in eternal peace and may the many loving and joyous memories of a life time of togetherness bring you everlasting peace, and comfort your heart and soul. Idelta and Rui
Michael Fong
Sep 16, 2025Dear Brad and your family, I was deeply saddened to hear of your beloved father’s passing. Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the loss of Gary Dietrich. “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, nor angels nor demons, nor the present nor the future, nor any other power, can separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus, our Lord.” — Romans 8:38‑39 Gary’s life of faith, kindness, and generosity has left an indelible mark on all who knew him. As we gather at Guardian Angel Church to celebrate his holy funeral Mass, may the Holy Spirit fill you with the peace that surpasses all understanding (Phil 4:7) and remind you that, through Christ, we share in the hope of eternal life. I pray that the Lord’s merciful love surrounds you and your family, granting you strength in this painful hour. May the Guardian Angel who watches over us also keep Gary’s spirit close to the Father’s embrace, and may the memories of his love sustain you. If you need a listening ear, a shared prayer, or simply a quiet presence, know that I am here for you as a brother in Christ. May God’s grace sustain you now and always. With sincere sympathy and brotherly love, Michael Brother in Christ
Tony M
Sep 15, 2025Dietrich family, my deepest sympathies on the loss of a great man.
Dale Heiydt
Sep 15, 2025Dear Madeline and family; Please accept our sincere condolences at this difficult time. We hope and pray that soon your sorrows and grief will turn into sweet, warm memories of Gary. He would want it that way! Second, please let me express the pleasure it was working with Gary. He was a fine, gifted, and intelligent businessman! The years we spent together are filled with cherished memories of very successful and fun times! Gary’s keen love of customers and building programs that pleased them was evident very early on. Although I didn’t get a chance to see Gary in later years and in more senior roles, I bet he was good at it! Gary will be remembered by many who enjoyed him and his strong work ethic, no doubt about it!! Sandra and I wish we could be with you to celebrate his life and his life’s accomplishments on his special day - unfortunately - but we will both be with you in spirit and support, as you celebrate this great man!! God bless!!!
Victor
Sep 15, 2025In my thoughts
Alyssa
Sep 15, 2025Brad and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. With deepest sympathy, Alyssa
Mario Sorrentino
Sep 15, 2025My heart goes out to you (Brad) and your family during this time. I know how much your father meant to you. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Dana Kovach
Sep 14, 2025My deepest condolences to Madeline, Chris, Brad and the families. We all loved Gary for his wicked humour and laughter. May the great memories of Gary bring you peace and comfort and May He Rest in Peace!
Tony & Wendy Ferreira
Sep 14, 2025Our deepest, heartfelt condolences to Madeline, Chris, Brad and families on the loss of your husband, dad and grandfather. May your memories of times spent with Gary give you comfort over the coming days and forever. Love to you all. Tony & Wendy Ferreira
Lily Ferreira and Family
Sep 14, 2025Sending my deepest sympathies to you Madeline, Brad, Chris and family. May the cherished moments you shared bring comfort in the days ahead.
Sandy Oakley
Sep 13, 2025My deepest sympathy to you and your family
Adrian Shewchuk
Sep 12, 2025Madeline and family...so very sorry to hear of Gary's passing. Gary was always one to bring a smile to your face, and loved a good laugh. Many good years at Sears...and a friend afterwards. Gary was one of the Good Guys! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Deepest sympathies and fond memories... Adrian Shewchuk
Peter May
Sep 11, 2025My condolence to the entire family. Gary was a strong influence on my career at Sears and a respected member of the executive. My earlier encounter with Gary was the opening of the first Sears Furniture/Appliance Store in Oakville. A trail blazer to the future of retail. He'll definitely be missed but never forgotten.
Frances Magliocchi
Sep 11, 2025Dear Madeline and family, I am so very sorry for the loss of Gary. I had the pleasure of working with Gary at Sears for many years. He was a wonderful human being and had so much passion for the business he led. May God bless you and the family with the strength and courage you need at this time of loss. May he Rest in Peace. Blessings & Best Regards, Frances Magliocchi
Dorian
Sep 11, 2025Our sincere condolences. We send much love and prayers to the entire family during this challenging time of mourning. The Molinari Family
Carmen & John Novosky
Sep 10, 2025Dearest Maddi and family - we were with you at the very beginning of your grand Love Affair with Gary and we will be with you as you lay him to rest. He really and truly was your Soulmate and that is a rare privilege ! Our hearts are with you and your extended family as we send our Condolences XO XO Carmen and John
Sue Stevenson
Sep 10, 2025Our sincere condolences. Gary was a great man and mentor. I will always cherish our business relationship at Sears. We are very sorry for your loss
Ryan Brooks
Sep 10, 2025Grief is but love, persevering. Condolences to the families who were loved and will forever love. R. L. Brooks
Deacon David Quail
Sep 10, 2025May he rest in Peace. Condolences. Pax, Deacon David Quail