From the moment he landed on this earth, Gary has always lived to the beat of his own drum. A lover of all things speedy & wild, he earned the nickname Fast Eddie as a young boy. He certainly continued to earn and perpetuate this term of endearment as the years went on. The only thing he ever did slow was pass away. From camping in Kilbear, to listening to music, to cycling from Stayner to Meaford with small kids in tow, to bonfires, to snowmobiling & all things outdoors, Gary always found a reason to laugh and find an adventure. He lived life fast and fully. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family. Gary leaves behind his partner in life & love,Teresa Trozzo – who will most certainly ensure that there is never a lack of love, food or eyes on his kids & grandkids. Although living not far from another, it was a trip to Cuba that lead to their first meeting. After a wonderful few days together before heading back to Canada, the ever-charming Gary sealed the deal by yelling “If no one has told you they love you today, let me be the first”. From there they built a home (& tiki bar) together with the cherished pup, Schulumpa. Proud Dad of his “Gabbagoops”, Nicole Drake Wright (Peter), Alicia Drake (Ryan Patterson), Amanda Drake (Joshua Davis), Adam Drake, & Jordon Mullen-Smith (Robert Orr). Adventurous “Papa Drake” to Cambria, Jack, & Henry. Youngest son of Nancy Drake & the late Walter Drake. Beloved brother of Joan Seymour, Gregory Drake, Colleen VanHorne (Gord), Maureen Sprayson (Frank), Suzanne Drake, Jeannie Abel (John), & Karen Doucet (Ivan). Predeceased by a brother, Michael Drake (Susan) & brother-in-law Larry Seymour. Uncle Gary to many nieces & nephews. Dear friend and member of the Singhampton Gentlemen’s Club, alongside Brian Currie, & Rodney Patterson. He encouraged his kids from a young age to fart, burp, & pick their nose. They were taught how to make soup, play cards, start a fire, enjoy nature, never to trust a toaster oven, to put your napkin on your lap in a restaurant and not to take life too seriously. Gary passed his unique palate down to his kids…lover of most foods and all things pickled. On January 19, Gary was enjoying a visit with family on the beautiful North Shore of New Brunswick. After a freak snowmobile accident, he battled for almost 3 months. His strength and fortitude surprised medical staff throughout his journey, but particularly in his final few weeks. Where many would have succumbed earlier, Gary carried on, against the odds and leaves us with the message that we are full of strength, and to never give up. Many thanks to Brad Guitard & Drake Hickey, and the entire Belledune Fire Department & RCMP, The Moncton Hospital, including Dr. Adams and the NICU staff, Kevin Black, and the numerous friends and families that shared prayers, encouragement and support throughout this journey. Teresa flew to be with Gary and drove through an East Coast snowstorm to get to him, and was at his side every step of the way. Their love was truly special and our family will never forget the dedication they had to one another and their unconditional love. Gary’s remains will be sprinkled throughout nature and with his family. Don’t worry, he’s been cremated first. He loved us and left us too soon. A celebration of life will take place on June 15 at the Singhampton Community Centre. Also – if you’re missing your lighter, it’s probably in his pocket.
