Lawrence "Larry" Joseph Gies

Lawrence "Larry" Joseph Gies passed peacefully July 6, 2023.

Larry was born June 19, 1936 to Frederick & Kathleen, the middle child sandwiched between sisters, Bernadette (Frank) and Mary Kay (Norm).  Larry lived in Toronto for the first 60 years of his life.  He was a member of St. Michael's Choir School. After graduating from De La Salle High School, Larry began work with Northern Electric.  He shifted from working in accounting (too taxing!) to the engineering division.  Over his 40 year career with the company, Larry would see it transition to become Bell Canada.  Larry retired in 1996.

Along the way, Larry met Lena.  They were married for 25 years and were blessed with one daughter - Laurena. They enjoyed a busy homelife in Etobicoke and took great pride in Laurena's many travels and accomplishments.  Unfortunately, Lena passed away from cancer, as did Laurena some years later.

Larry was active and athletic for most of his life - playing basketball up until age 60, as well as tennis, skiing, biking and golfing well beyond that.  Later in life he was an avid Football/Baseball Fantasy fan.  He always loved his Toronto Blue Jays.

Larry had a love of music, playing piano and lending his bass voice to Our Lady of Sorrows Church Choir and St. Anthony's Choir in Toronto.  Most memorable for Larry was a choir tour throughout Italy where they were given a special opportunity to sing for the Pope in his private garden.

Larry was fortunate to find love a second time later in life.  Larry met Barbara at the insistence of mutual friend Peter, while she was in Toronto for business.  The relationship blossomed and wedding plans were soon underway.  Larry would come to join Barbara in Victoria and become father to her two children, Scott and Sandra (Warren).  The family would eventually grow to include their beloved granddaughter, Raeghan.  Larry & Barbara were blessed to celebrate their 26th wedding anniversary earlier this year.

Larry and Barbara continued an active life on the West coast and enjoyed time up island, especially at Yellow Point Lodge for many years.  They travelled extensively, enjoying extended trips to Europe but mostly loved time with family/friends in Toronto, Kelowna & California.  Road trips found both singing in the car.  Larry loved to dance and boy could he dance.  Although not an official member of Barbara's Oak Bay Kiwanis Club, Larry volunteered for many years at the Willow's Beach Tearoom and happy hour at Rose Manor.  He had the ability to make friends easily and was known for his dry sense of humor and wit.  His competitive side was always present especially when playing cards.  Larry took to West coast living easily.  He was a dedicated strata council member at Chatsworth House for many years, forming strong friendships with fellow residents there.

Larry leaves behind cherished family and friends mostly in Toronto and Victoria, but some scattered far and wide.  With declining health, Larry came to stay at Mount St. Mary Hospital where he received excellent compassionate care.  During his final few weeks he celebrated Father's Day and his birthday surrounded by family and friends.  He was singing till the end and passed peacefully in his sleep.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the charity of your choice.

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