Gary James Steeves, born April 10, 1960, passed away in Grande Prairie, AB, on Sunday, February 19, 2017, at the age of 56 years. Gary was a flirt, so he is probably strutting for the angels in heaven!

Gary was born in Grande Prairie and raised near Sexsmith, the youngest of 5 children.

Left to cherish the memories are his daughter Valine (Moe) Nakpana of Edmonton; siblings Jean Yaremko of Westlock, Carol (Walter) Jacklin of Beaverlodge, Robert (MaryEllen) Steeves of Pitt Meadows, BC and Marie (Dave) King of Sexsmith; special friend Jo, dedicated cousin Kevin Makrocki and lifelong, childhood, special friend Arnold Johnson. Gary also leaves aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Gary was predeceased by his parents Clarence and Christina Steeves, brother in-law Joe Yarenko, Emil Penno; very close friend and cousin Terry Makrocki.

Gary was the first person in line to help others, whether it be carrying items or heavy lifting. He was always a prankster, playing jokes on others. Gary was the life of the party!

He loved the outdoors, from snow shoeing to his father’s cabin on the trap line, to running and horseback riding. He was also a very talented musician. Gary could sing, play guitar, play piano and play the drums. Gary would sing the Neil Diamond song “Solitary Man” and the song “Stand By Me” to his mother, whom he was very close with. Gary was excellent on the drums in the song “Wipeout”. Anyone who knows the song, knows what a workout it is. Gary could also talk like Donald Duck!

Gary was a dreamer. He dreamt of being rich, having a nice house, and travelling the world.

Gary worked at many jobs such as cab driver and a driving instructor. His time at the electrical company was a challenge Gary loved. Gary willingly shared his electrical knowledge.

A concussion during a vehicle accident changed Gary’s personality. He was withdrawn and was a very private person. If you were one of the few people Gary let into his private world, he showed that he was a very caring and compassionate person and would do anything for you. Gary always had a great sense of humor which, again, was only seen by a few people. With all the medical issues Gary had, he still maintained this caring and compassionate side.

Gary, you touched many people and will be greatly missed.

Thank you to the Sexsmith doctors, Dr. O and Dr. Van Tonder, your caring and compassionate visits will always be remembered. Thank you to Dr. van der Merwe and Staff on 3 North at the QEII Hospital. Thank you to the Staff at The Gardens and Points West, your love and caring work is superior. Thank you EMS.

Those wishing to donate may donate to Ataxie Canada (C.P. 49065, Montréal, QC, H1N 3T6) or the charity of your choice.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.