Gary Walter Van DUSEN

Gary Walter Van Dusen passed away on January 12, 2019 with his family by his side.

Gary Van Dusen was born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan on October 22nd, 1952. He moved to Port Alberni at the age of 3 and lived there until his passing.

Gary was predeceased by his father Walter Van Dusen 2011, his mother Belle Van Dusen 1987 and sister Karen Wutke 2009. He will be greatly missed by Rose, his loving wife of 38 years. He was a loving father and grandfather to their 3 children Dion, Kevin (Joleen) and Nichole (Todd) and their grandchildren Riley, Meara, Isaiah, Alyssa, Summer and Seth. Gary's 4 legged side kick “Shadow” will miss him and their adventures.

Gary is also survived by his sister Lillian (Ian) Blatch, brother Jim Van Dusen, brother Mike Van Dusen (Liane) and brother-in-law Rick Morey (Mary). Gary had numerous cousins, nieces and nephews who will truly miss him.

He had many close friends, some were known as the weekend warriors and he enjoyed his time with them all.

He had a love of music, dancing and sports, especially the Boston Bruins. Gary was a proud blood donor who donated blood over 100 times. He was employed at the Somass Mill until his retirement. The Kinsmen Club and the Alberni District Fall Fair Association were 2 of his greatest passions. Gary dedicated endless hours of his time to these 2 organizations and to the community of Port Alberni.

The achievements Gary obtained were 'Kinsmen of the Year'  (numerous times), 'President of the Kinsmen Club'  (numerous times), 'Founders Award', 'Lifetime Membership', 'National Gem Award', 'Alberni Valley Fall Fair Director' (numerous times) and 'Chairman of the Fall Fair' (numerous times).

Although Gary had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's and then was challenged by cancer, he lived his life to the fullest. Gary's sense of humour helped carry him through the difficult times.

Gary was a unique one of a kind person who truly earned his angel wings.

He will be missed today and always.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 26, 2019 at 1:00pm-4pm upstairs in the KCC building on the Fall Fair Grounds