Gary Ralph Leek

Gary Ralph Leek

80 years young and still able to run circles around men half his age, left this world far too soon on Dec. 3rd, 2025, leaving behind a legacy built on love, grit, humour, and a nose no one could ever forget.

Gary is survived by his devoted wife of more than 40 years, Lisa Leek, with whom he shared a bond that only strengthened with time. Their love story—equal parts partnership, laughter, and gentle sarcasm—remained unshakable right up to his final days. He also leaves behind his beloved children: Christi, Stacey (Danielle) and Cody (Aria) each of whom carries a piece of his strength, humour, and stubborn charm. He also leaves behind his grandkids: Morgan (Matt), Jake, Rachel, Brody and Carter, whom all affectionately referred to him as "Grumps". Gary will also be missed by his "adopted" sons: Jacob and Dalton (Anita).

Gary leaves behind many extended family members, Lana, Larry, Stan, Dale, Teresa, David and many nephews, nieces, cousins, great & great-great nieces & nephews, too many to name, all who will miss winding him up at our family get-togethers and trying to see who could be the first to get him to crack a smile/smirk.

He is predeceased by his parents, Ralph & Phyllis Leek and his sister, Beverley Cordner.

Gary had many friends and acquaintances, especially through his "drag racing" days at the St. Thomas Raceway Park / St. Thomas Dragway and in his early years in the Montreal area as well as his golfing buddies. There are too many to individually name again but he will be missed sorely by his best buds TJ(his best man) and Cliff(Dirt), your breakfast meet-ups will not be the same without "Dust" there. To Bill, for letting Gary hang out at your shop and keeping him busy & out of Lisa's hair when he retired. He loved the stories you both shared as well as learning how to tinker better with the race cars. (Who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks) and Dale down the street for always being just a phone call away and for sharing the love of a golf game with him.

A special shout out & thank you to our Riverbank Dr. neighbours. Always there for us, your friendship, support and kindness will be forever in our hearts. Love that in this day and age we have that old-fashioned neighbourhood vibe in our community AND you all never complained about the loud racket that came from his race cars in the early hours on race weekends or when he was just tinkering with them or even his recent new baby, the Black Pony when he put her in drag race mode. We know he may not be sitting in his chair watching the neighbourhood from his beloved garage but we do know he is sitting somewhere watching over us all.

Heartfelt thanks to STEGH, LHSC, Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre, St. Thomas First Responders- Fire and EMS. Your heroic efforts gave us more precious time to spend with Gary. Words are not enough to express our gratitude.

A man of few words but every one of them impactful, Gary was known for a dry sarcasm that could stop a room, a heart ready to help anyone who needed him, and a loyalty to his family that never wavered. He spent 30+ years working for Ford(St. Thomas) & 10 years at Air Canada(Montreal), showing up every day with the same no-nonsense attitude and work ethic that shaped every part of his life.

When he wasn’t working, Gary could be found on the golf course, cheering on his favorite NASCAR drivers, or climbing into the cockpit of a drag car—possibly the only man confident enough to call himself a part-time drag racer and, on occasion, a “drag king.” His passions were loud, fast, and unapologetically fun, much like the man himself.

Gary now reunites with his faithful dog, Crash, undoubtedly already taking long walks together in the afterlife. Mateo, his rescue cat will have to stare down Lisa now for a bite of the cheese, ice cream or chips that Gary and Mateo shared on his recliner.

Above all, Gary’s defining features were his unwavering commitment to family, his sly and unforgettable sense of humor, and yes—that nose of his, one he wore proudly and passed down with love.

He leaves behind a world that feels quieter without him, but infinitely better for having had him in it. His spirit, his sarcasm, and his love will echo in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know him.

He will be missed more than words can express.

A celebration of life for Gary will be held in 2026. If desired, donations may be made to the Cancer Research Society.