Obituary of Gary William Brander
The death occurred peacefully surrounded by his loving family at the Community Hospital O’Leary on Thursday, January 16th, 2025, of William ‘Gary’ Brander of Kensington, PE, aged 72 years. Gary was born in Summerside to the late Jack and Beatrice (Folland) Brander.
Beloved husband of Ann (Arsenault) Brander and loving father of Steven (Lisa), and Lori (Michael) Sauve. Lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Kristi (Alex), Brandon (Becky), Jesse (Franki), Matt (Paige) and great-grandchildren Leah and Brielle. Along with several nieces and nephews. Also fondly remembered by special friends Grenville MacLeod and Jean Arsenault.
Survived by his sister Brenda Brander, brothers-in-laws and sisters-in-laws Nancy Arsenault, Shirley Gallant, Bea Pye, Johnny (Valerie) Arsenault, Junior Arsenault, Albert Fuhrmann, Geralda (Danny) Cameron, Jim (Vera) Arsenault, Benny Arsenault, and Susan (Floyd) Gavin.
Predeceased by his parents Jack and Beatrice Brander, father and mother-in-law William and Josephine (Gaudet) Arsenault, brothers-in-laws and sisters-in-laws Rosa Arsenault in infancy, Ivan Gallant, Edward Arsenault, Pauline Arsenault, Anita Fuhrmann, and Charles Pye.
Gary loved his family, friends, camping and music dearly. He spent over 28 years working at the Kensington rink and became well known as the Ice Maker and Sound Guy. And of course, many knew him for his well trusted skate sharpening and engraving skills. He took great pride in his work. Later he ventured on to work for the Town of Kensington in the Maintenance dept., until his health no longer allowed him to. At age 52 sadly Gary’s life took a turn after having several mini strokes. He fought a courageous battle for the last 20 years, up until November when he was diagnosed with terminal cancer and just had no fight left in him. Gary, the kind and gentle soul that we all knew and loved will be sadly missed. May you fly high and play your beautiful music for the angels now.
A big thank you to the staff at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Prince County Hospital and the Community Hospital, O’Leary. Special thanks to Dr. S. MacDonald, Dr. Kutcher, Dr. Morash and Dr. Blais. Your care and kindness was very much appreciated.
Resting at the East Prince Funeral Home, 245 Pope Rd., Summerside. No visiting hours or funeral service. A Celebration of Life will take place at the Kensington Lion’s Club, 30 Garden Drive, Kensington, on Saturday January 25th, 2025. 1pm – 4pm.
Donations in Gary’s memory can be made directly to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Canadian Cancer Society at https://www.heartandstroke.ca/ https://cancer.ca/en/ways-to-give/in-memory-and-in-honour-donations