Gary Stephen Gallant

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gary Stephen Gallant, age 74, of Rawdon, Quebec, on September 11, 2026.

Born on March 1, 1952, in Campbellton, New Brunswick, Gary was the second of five children born to Val and Betty Gallant. He grew up with an appreciation for family, nature, and animals, passions that remained with him throughout his life.

Gary leaves behind his children: Layne (Clint), Melanie (Austin), Steve (Laura), Kim, and Laura (Gerrad). He was a proud grandfather to Shawnee, Kawennáhere, Kwahará:ni, Kakwitè:ne, Griffin, Eliza, Chrissy, Tessa, Rylee, Hannah, Owen, Ryan, and Iyla, and great-grandfather to Aidan, Ethan, Atshennonniá:a, Stella, Quinn, Colby, and Dallas, and is survived by his siblings Shirley (Nel Nelson), Ruth, and David (Louise). Growing up together created a bond that never faded. They remained each other’s confidants, supporters, and friends through life’s joys and challenges. Gary deeply valued the love, laughter, and companionship they shared, and the memories they created together will be cherished always.

Gary was predeceased by his beloved son Ryan, his sister Carol, his brother-in-law Pierre, and his parents, Val and Betty.

For 27 years, Gary worked as a zookeeper with the City of Edmonton, a career perfectly suited to his lifelong love of animals. One of the highlights of his career was caring for Lucy, the cherished elephant at the Edmonton Valley Zoo. Years after retiring, Gary visited Lucy and, despite having been apart for several years, she remembered him. It was a touching and unforgettable moment that spoke to the special bond they shared.

Animals were not simply Gary’s profession; they were his passion. His children never knew what animal he might be caring for next, and visits to his home were often filled with surprise and delight as they met his newest furry, feathered, or four-legged friends. He had a particular fondness for Percheron horses and dogs, especially pugs. Growing up with a father whose compassion for all living creatures knew no bounds was truly magical.

Gary was also a gifted and creative man. He expressed his artistry through beautiful stained-glass creations, many of which are treasured by family members today. He enjoyed knitting and made warm toques and shearling mitts for those he loved. More recently, he had taken up beading, embracing yet another creative outlet.

An enthusiastic gardener, Gary delighted in tending his beloved dahlias and was famous for growing more tomatoes than anyone could possibly use. Music was always playing in his home, providing the soundtrack to a life filled with creativity, curiosity, and joy.

Above all, Gary will be remembered for his kindness, gentle spirit, creativity, and deep love for his family and the animals that enriched his life. His presence will be profoundly missed, but the memories he created and the love he shared will remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered always.