Obituary of Garnet Speers

After a long battle with Diabetes, Garnet passed away at home with his wife by his side on January 8, 2013. He will be missed by his wife, Ann, of 64 years. Loving father of Jerry (Bianca), Rod, Brian (Marilyn), Debbie Moffatt (Ron), Donna Rossi (Mike). Proud grandpa of Jason, Natasha, Rick, Gary, Daryl, Jennifer, Tom, Karl, Janice, Matthew and the late Ralph Rossi. Garnet will be missed by his growing number of great grandchildren. Beloved son of the late George and Ellen Speers. Dear brother of the late Robert (Georgina), late Violet (late Gilbert), late Jack, late Bill (late Barbara), Shirley Causley (Cliff), Jean Snell (late Dorian, late Tom), Donald (Rosemary), Margaret Powley (Edward), Ellen Bonsor (late Bram), and Betty Elliott. Brother-in-law of the late Clara Tweedle (late Arnold), Julia Gilbert, Mary McKinnon-Flint (late Jack), late Jim Gilbert. Garnet was a pipe fitter and spent 30 years working at Algoma Steel. Garnet and his family were pioneers of the racing community in the Sault. He acted as president for many years of the Algoma Stock Car Association. Some of his happiest times were spent out at the racetrack on 5th Line. Many happy moments were also spent out at his former camp on Haviland Shore Drive and at the home he built himself on Island Lake. Garnet was not a man to be still. He was in constant motion, whether it be tinkering with a car, ripping apart some appliance, part of the house to re build to his specifications, or spending endless hours on his back hoe. He always had a vision and the gumption to follow through. Anyone who knew Garnet knew of his passion for food. He was not shy to request special treats and his sisters often indulged him with sugar free goods. He was a happy man when he was eating. He also enjoyed playing cards with his brother in law, Edward. This especially gave him enjoyment during his last year. Garnet will probably best be remembered for his colourful sense of humour. He was a funny man with a lot of interesting opinions. He enjoyed the simple pleasures in life: a Diet Pepsi, his dog Buddy, cinnamon buns, watching the 11 o clock news. He believed in hard work and enjoying life. He loved to dole out the change in his pocket whenever a grandchild would stop by. In his eyes, his grandchildren could do no wrong. Garnet was ready to go because he was suffering, but he will be missed. He knew this day was coming. The family wishes to thank Cliff, his brother in law, for building his final resting place. Garnet took great comfort and pride in knowing this was custom built for him. A graveside service and memorial luncheon will be held at a later date. Memorial donations to SAH would be appreciated by the family. Goodbye Garnet, and thank you for being part of our lives... we will smile when we think of you.