Obituary of Gary Michael Paul Mourant

Cremation has taken place. A private service will be held on Friday, February 25, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB.

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Gary Michael Paul Mourant on Wednesday, January 26, 2022, at the age of 61. 

He will be greatly missed by his partner Sonia, daughters Melanie, Angèle (Michael), grandchildren Hudson and Rhémi, his mother Berthe (Betsy), brother Gilbert (Agnes), sister Marilyn (Marc), and his many nieces and nephews, as well as many great nieces and great nephews. Dylan (Brigitte), Jennifer (Kyle), Karis (Keenan), Falon (James), Seth, Sadie, Caydance, Arianna, Atlas, and the Cumming family Craig (Cheryl), Laurel (Pat), Zac, Carson, and Ainsley.

Gary was predeceased by his father Paul (Dec 2019) and ex-wife Jacqueline (Dec 2021).

Since day one Gary was unique and remarkable being born on Leap Year, of February 29^th, 1960, at St. Boniface Hospital.

Gary grew up in Dufresne Manitoba surrounded by family. He loved the outdoors and took every opportunity to enjoy his love of fishing and hunting. Gary was happy to have anyone join him on any of his expeditions; but he found the most joy when hunting with his dad, Gil, Mimi, and Dylan. His day long fishing adventures with his grandchildren out on the pontoon boat were filled with laughter, excitement, and endless patience for freeing snagged lines. The day always included a stop at Scottie’s Beach, and usually one (or three) more fishing strolls on the boat ride back to camp.

In earlier years, Gary excitedly planned many annual fishing trips known as The Uncle Buck weekends which included family, friends, and many children. It goes without saying that this was the most anticipated event of the year. Gary would prepare for weeks with lists and packing bin after bin making sure there were enough fishing rods, life jackets, and tackle for each child. Also ensuring to pack two of everything – just in case. Two tents, two sleeping bags, two cots, two stoves, two coolers… which always included Old Nippy cheese, Kubasa, French’s mustard, Bick’s baby garlic dill pickles, and Ritz crackers. 

The Mourant family spent many happy summers at Caddy Lake. In later years Gary and Sonia enjoyed summers at McKenzie Lodge in Kenora where they made long lasting friendships.

Gary valued living life to the fullest and dedicated his life-long career to serving agriculture. He enjoyed connecting with dairy farmers about their needs and how he could help. December’s annual dairy convention was always highlighted in everyone’s calendar. Gary would spend days meeting with customers and colleagues to discuss the latest in dairy equipment and farming news. He was inspired by farmers, and motivated to help them reach success. Gary was proud to see Manitoban farms thrive. 

Gary was known by many names: Dad, Uncle Buck, Skunk, Nooky, Gears, Gare-Fisher, The Legend… but out of all the names; he cherished being called Grandpa the most.

Gary always carried a positive attitude and a contagious sense of humor. Gary’s smile had the power to warm your soul and brighten your spirit. He faithfully believed in God and in Positivity. Gary lived life with purpose and held great emphasis to LIVE LOVE and LAUGH.

Special thanks to Soeur Rioux for her kind and constant spiritual care.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Agriculture in the Classroom Manitoba https://aitc.mb.ca/get-involved/donate.