Garry Eugene Dunits

Garry Dunits passed away peacefully in the early evening of October 13th ,2024 at the Russell Health Centre. Garry was born on Aug 3rd,1940 in Hamiota, and lived most of his life on the farm west of Oakburn. He was involved with his parents and siblings in the day to day operations of the farm and had a love for cattle.

While attending school Garry was involved with the local 4-H Seed Club which he eventually took leadership of. He enjoyed exhibiting his 4-H expertise at the Shoal Lake fairs by competing in several home-grown cereal sheaves and seed displays, winning many first place awards even into his later years.

Wishing to expand his work experience, Garry took up a job as parts man at Waddell Motors in Newdale. He earned enough money to purchase a 1952 Chev Sedan allowing for trips to Flin Flon, and  the Snow Lake area and landed a job as a gravel truck driver during the winter months, until returning to the farm to work along side his family. Throughout the years Garry enjoyed volunteering and enjoyed being involved with the local Community and was a recipient of several plaques in recognition for his services. He served from 1964 to 1984 as Director and 12 years as President for the Oakburn Pool Elevator. In addition, he was Sub-District Councillor and for 4 years President for Manitoba Pool Elevators.  For 12 years Garry served as a councillor for the Rural Municipality of Shoal Lake.

In the 1980’s he took a position as a board member of the Shoal Lake - Strathclair Health Center where he held positions of board member and chairman over the 9 years he served there. He was very proactive in having a new hospital built in Shoal Lake .

One of his most enjoyable groups to be involved with over the years was being a chartered member of the Oakburn Lions Club, where he recently received his 40 year pin. He was always there to lend a hand and loved helping his fellow members.

Garry took advantage of his time off over the years to travel to Cuba, Jamaica, and the southern US. He also had a trip to Japan with the Canola Growers Association which he was proud of.

Garry was predeceased by his parents Steve and Tena Dunits, and sister-in-law Debbie Dunits. He is survived by sister Gayle Luba (Mark), brothers Larry (Nicolle), and Lorne (Joan).  Nieces and nephews cherishing and recalling fond memories of Garry are niece Lana (Carson) and Kenzie, nephew Greg (Shyanne), Alexa and Angel, nephews Brett and Darren, nephew Derek (Alisa), Laney and Burke, niece  Morgan (Blair).  Garry was a kind, happy, giving man that will be missed by many.

On behalf of Garry and our family we would like to thank Dr Gooden and staff at Hamiota Health Center, the Home Care Staff , and Russell Health Centre Drs. and staff that cared for him in his final days.

If friends so desire, donations may be made to Oakburn Lions Club in memory of Garry.