February 27, 1964 – December 7, 2024
at the age of 60 years:     

Gary was born in Calgary, AB on Feb. 27, 1964, and passed away on December 7, 2024, at Salmon Arm, BC at the age of 60 years.

He was predeceased by his mother Shirley Joyce Sweetnam (Apr. 2022) and father Victor Samuel Sweetnam (Feb. 2010).  He has left his grieving family members:  sibling; Shari, Greg and Garth; girl friend Naomi Laughlin, sisters in law Alice and Susan; nieces; Jill, Taylor, Jenna, Sarah and family and Alexis and family, as well as his ex wife Virginia Schultz.

Gary was the original “Sweets” and this nickname followed him throughout a stellar hockey career that included the Junior A Calgary Spurs, a full scholarship and Ferris State College and a year of professional hockey in Kempten, Germany.  Gary was an expert heavy equipment operator and his expertise brought him to isolated areas of BC where he specialized in pipeline excavation.  Gary was an avid animal lover and Meesha, Cinder and Crystal loved him back.  He was also a devoted uncle and loving brother; always willing to help those in need.