Obituary of Gary W. Bailey

BAILEY - Gary William of St. Thomas passed away after a courageous battle, on Monday, August 19, 2013 at the age of 67. Beloved husband of Brenda for 50 years. Gary is survived by children Dan (Michele) Bailey, Steve (Wendy) Bailey, and Greg (Jaime) Bailey; grandchildren Sarah Bailey, Jenifer Bailey, Josh Bailey, Emily Bailey, and Jessie (Mitch) Dejong; brothers Alfred (Betty) Bailey, and Wayne (Lynn) Bailey. Gary had a varied career working for Lloyd Pressey Fuel Oil, Clevite, Clark Equipment and Lovedays Towing. He eventually started his own Music Band and Entertainment Agency, becoming the first licensed Booking Agent in Canada, booking bands throughout Canada and the United States. Gary’s love of music and talent for entertainment led to a prolific career in the industry. He sang with the Simcoe Barbershop Group, the Psych Hospital Choir, Knox Church Choir and ultimately he became a promoter for the Rudy Davis Band. The latter led him to Montreal, California, touring the west, with eventual recognition on Billboard Top Hits for their #2 single that is still played on many radio stations today. Gary’s passion for music was rivaled only by his love for family. Coaching hockey for years, following Greg and Dan with their hockey careers, motorcycle racing with Steve, Dan, and later grandson Josh. Somewhere in all of this, Gary had time to be an active member, and past President of the Port Stanley Optimists Club. The family wishes to thank all the doctors, nurses and staff at Victoria Hospital Pallative Care, along with Dr. Patrick Luke, Dr. Patrick Colquhaun, and Dr. John Johnson from University Hospital for their kind care. Visitation will be held at the Shawn Jackson Funeral Home 31 Elgin Street, St. Thomas (519-631-0570) on Friday, August 30, 2013 from 2:00 to 4:00 and 7:00 to 9:00pm. The memorial service will be held at Knox Presbyterian Church 55 Hincks Street, St. Thomas on Saturday, August 31, 2013 at 11:00am. Interment in Union Cemetery. If desired, donations to the Kidney Foundation would be appreciated. Visitation Friday, August 30, 2013 from 2:00 - 4:00 and 7:00 - 9:00 pm. Shawn Jackson Funeral Home Memorial Service Saturday, August 31, 2013 at 11:00 am. Knox Presbyterian Church Interment Union United Church Cemetery Reception Knox Presbyterian Church Memorial donations are being accepted in memory of Gary W. Bailey for :Kidney Foundation of Canada - Southwestern ON Chapter Service Information