November 29, 1952 - August 8, 2022
Gary Kroeker, a lifelong resident of Abbotsford, passed away in the early morning of August 8th, 2022, at Abbotsford Regional Hospital, after a brief battle with cancer.
Gary was born on November 29, 1952, to Nick and Katherine Kroeker and he grew up in Sumas Prairie on a dairy farm.
He attended Upper Sumas School and graduated from MEI in 1970.
He enjoyed farm life and all the activities that were made available to him. He became an admirer of horses, and he had his own horse for many years.
His love of hockey became very evident at an early age and he and dad would create many ice rinks on the farm and play hockey for hours, even after dark with the headlights of the truck, lighting up the rink.
His love of music was also evident at an early age and became his passion. He studied guitar for many years, and he spent many hours playing and learning to perfect the instrument. His love of rock and roll music led him to become a proficient bass guitar player and he was one of the founding members for the band Banshee. Many friendships were cultivated through the years of performing.
More recently, as his health failed, he found solace in jazz music.
He worked, for over 40 years, as a courier in the Fraser Valley. His most recent contract was with T- Force. He enjoyed this job and took pride in his job. He talked fondly of the people and friendships that were made while working for the company.
He was an avid Vancouver Canucks fan and not a game was missed! He was one of their biggest fans.
He left us too soon and our hearts are broken.
He leaves behind his 2 sisters, Diane (John) Petkau and Marlene (Gary) Dirksen as well as his nieces and nephews: Jennifer Dyck, Carmen (Douglas) Howe, Leanne (Steve) Dorman, Lauren (Thad Williams), Kate (Cameron) Smith and Brayden Dirksen as well as extended family and friends.
We would like to thank the Doctors and nurses and EMT's, for their care and kindness shown to Gary during this difficult journey.
A private family celebration of life is planned. Until we meet again.