In Memory of

Lynn

Gibson

Obituary for Lynn Gibson

Harry Arthur Lynn Gibson

How do you write an obituary for someone who preferred not to be centre stage and always worked tirelessly behind the scenes?
On February 15, 2023, (Harry Arthur) Lynn Gibson passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
There are many words that could be used to describe him and the legacy he leaves behind. Among them are: thoughtful, brilliant, humble, generous, kind, principled, loving and witty.
Lynn was born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan to the late Harry Robert Lynn Gibson and Wanda Ada (Schick) Gibson. He grew up alongside his sister Wanda Jane (Berndy). From Saskatoon, the family briefly moved to Toronto and finally settled in Cooksville, Ontario, where Lynn spent much of his childhood and youth.
Lynn was a loving and devoted husband to his best friend and high school sweetheart, Janice, with whom he shared nearly 55 years of marriage. He was an incredibly proud and loving father to his son, Lynn (Lisa), and daughters, Rachael (Mike) and Sarah. He was an adoring grandfather to Carleah, Alex, Nick, Aaron, Noa, Skya, Livia, and Griffin.
Together, with his wife Janice, Lynn thought deeply and carefully about every path he took in life. All of his choices were pursued with the ultimate goal of creating a happy and fulfilling life for himself and his family. Lynn and Janice moved from Cooksville to Orangeville, and then to Mono to raise their family, where they were welcomed by wonderful neighbours that soon became dear and treasured friends.
Lynn derived great pleasure from books, music, art, and nature. Some of his happiest moments were spent with loved ones at his peaceful and tranquil home on the Blind Line, as well as summers on Lake Couchiching.
Lynn completed his B.A. in English and Sociology at Akron University. After attending one year of studies at Osgoode Hall Law School, Lynn decided to return to his love of English literature at the University of Toronto and McMaster University, where he earned his Masters degree. Lynn’s sharp intellect and extraordinary work ethic led him to succeed in a wide range of areas. He began his professional career at Goodyear and became an account executive to Canadian Tire. He dabbled in farming, and thoroughly enjoyed lambing season at a neighbouring farm. Lynn had a passion for politics and, over the years, worked at all three levels of government. At the local level, he served as a councillor and then Mayor of Mono. At the provincial level, Lynn worked as Executive Assistant to former Ontario Premier Ernie Eves and then, at the federal level, with MP David Tilson.
Lynn was an integral part of the community and devoted to public service. In addition to his work in politics, Lynn served on multiple committees and associations, including the Niagara Escarpment Commission and the Credit Valley Conservation. He also served as President of the Orangeville Fair.
Along with many friends and colleagues, Lynn (Chairman of the Board), Nancy Ross and Dr. Gord Willans completed the project to build our new hospital, the present Headwaters Health Centre. Lynn’s contributions were greatly valued by his colleagues and his tremendous service to the community was recognized through multiple awards and certificates of appreciation.
Lynn captured the hearts of everyone he knew with his gentleness, humility, kindness, wit, and deep love for his family and friends. He lived life to the fullest and will be missed beyond measure by all who knew him.
The family is deeply grateful to the many people who provided special care to Lynn: Dr. Rodriguez, Dr. Laine-Smith, Dr. Arunasalam, Dr. Joshi, Dr. Cheema and team, the ambulance paramedics, and the very special nurses and PSW’s in Wing F.
A private family service has already taken place and a burial service at Elmvale Cemetary will be held in the Spring. A Celebration of Life will follow and be publicly announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Headwaters Health Care, The Cancer Society, or The Heart and Stroke foundation would be appreciated.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Dods & McNair, where online condolences may be given.