Gary Thomas Bean, life-long resident of Grande Prairie, AB, passed away Friday, December 22, 2023, with his family by his side, at Prairie Lakes Hospice, at the age of 85 years.

Gary was the third of five children. He was born on August 29, 1938, to parents William and Lois Bean. He attended school at Percy in the County of Grande Prairie, even by horse and buggy in the summertime.

He joined the Army in 1956, becoming a member of the Queens Own Rifles. He spent time in Eastern Canada and Germany while enlisted. He was very proud of his time in the Army and cherished many friendships made there.

Gary married Laverne Tanasichuk (nee Walker) in 1968. They adopted Becky in 1979, and Ryan joined the family 2 years later. Tragically, Ryan passed on October 3, 1998.

Gary spent his career self-employed in the concrete and construction industry, and you hardly saw him without a measuring tape hanging off his pocket.

In 1983, Gary began his life with Cathy welcoming her, and stepson Rob into the family. Gary loved the ocean and traveling very much, to their condo on Vancouver Island, Eastern Canada, Alaska, and places in Europe, especially Italy, which was one of his favorite places.

Gary had a jovial, friendly personality. During his early retirement, he purchased the mini golf in Muskoseepi Park. He loved kids and took great joy in running the little course and adding the Ice Cream parlour after a couple of years. He employed his daughter, great-niece, and nephew. He was never happier than when he was spending time with his family. There were many ski trips to Jasper, and other road trip adventures as well as a trip to Disney. Later in his retirement, he could be found in the yard, gardening, and growing enough tomatoes to share!

Gary will be sadly missed by his partner Cathy Ashley; daughter Becky (Richard) Anderson; stepson Rob (Jill) Ashley; grandchildren: Jenai (Chris) Carr, Reece, Jayce and Penn Ashley, and Shayne (Renae) Galavan; great-grandchildren: Colt Carr, and Ben Galavan; sister Ruth (Dick) Reynolds; and brother Ken (Emilie) Bean; as well as numerous other family members and friends.

He was predeceased by his mother Lois, father William, brother Raymond, nephew Dale, brother Wally, and son Ryan.

A private Interment will take place at Grande Prairie Cemetery.

A Memorial Service for family members and close friends will be held , Saturday, January 13, 2024, at 12:00 pm, at the Royal Canadian Legion in Grande Prairie (9912 101 Ave.) Luncheon to follow.

The family would like to thank the nurses and Dr. Bareth for being so amazing while Dad/Gary was in their care at Prairie Lakes Hospice.

Memorial donations may be made to the Grande Prairie Royal Canadian Legion (9912 101 Ave. Grande Prairie, AB, T8V 0X8).