12 March 1948 – 17 May 2021
12 March 1948 – 17 May 2021
Peacefully with his family by his side on Monday 17 May 2021 at Te Rangimarie Hospice, aged 73. Dearly loved husband and soul mate of Glenyss. Loved father and father-in-law of Aaron and Lisa, Bianca and Scott Gardiner, stepfather of Brad and Kate, and Rochelle and Josh. Loving Grandad of Amber, Cody, and Blake. Eldest brother and brother-in-law of Kevin and Christine (deceased), and David and Carolyn and their families.
Messages to the Wilks Family may be left here on Gary’s tribute page.
In preference to flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice Taranaki - TSB Bank 15 3948 0365008 80.
According to Gary’s wishes a private family service to celebrate his life has been held.

Funeral service held at Eagars Te Henui Chapel
Sorry to hear of Gary's passing. The last time I spoke with Gary was at a reunion some years ago. Not sure if it was the Westown Primary Schools reunion. My condolences to Gary's family along with Kevin and David's families. Lots of great memories. Gary Benton
such a great man , one of the tukapa legends
RIP To a real good guy a great Tukapa man who I had not seen for a few years, had the pleasure & enjoyment of playing with Gary in the late 70's & had some great times during those days--I always saw Gary at the club when I would venture back home & see the Blue & Whites play & Gary was always there supporting the club he loved & devoted so many years to ---Condolences to the family
Uncle Gary will be missed by a lot of people who knew him, he always made the time to talk to you. He was so clever and a hands on person, I have memory of seeing a chev impala he was restorng just in parts.I was amazed of the quality of workmanship when he completed the restoration. He spray painted few of my cars too and did a great job, condolences to rest of the family.Rest in peace Uncle Gary.
Gary's passing will leave a big hole my life. We lived oposite each other as kids, went to the same schools, belonged to the scouts together, went camping and have stayed in touch these years. I knew Gary was unwell but I did not think he would go so soon. Far to young. I will miss our chats when ever we met up. Our condolences Glynis please stay in touch. RIP Gary. Robin Benton
Hello Glenyss, my thoughts are with you all at such a sad time, I have just watched the video and what a beautiful send off your dear Garry has had, the tributes and memories you will enjoy but with tears of his lovely service. Deepest sympathy, keep smiling. Lots of love Jean Hastie
Deepest sympathy for your sad loss.
Dear Glenyss & family You have been in my thoughts over the last few months & send my Sympathy to you all. Didn't know you both long, but have fond memories of our hours together at Aqua Arobics. Glenyss, my love to you, as you start a new journey, without Gary by your side. Stay strong. Your Aqua Arobic team member Val West.
Glenyss and Family Our thoughts are with you all with the sad loss of Gary. His love and memories will be with you all every day. Our Deepest Sympathy. Annette and Merv
Glenyss- so sad to hear of Garys death. Gary and I started our training together with the Post Office as telephone technicians so we have known each other for a long time. He was a great guy to work with and l enjoyed catching up with him at the pool. Hope to see you at the pool again in the future. John Freeman
Glenys & family So sorry to hear of Gary’s passing great person helped out with odd jobs for me very grateful Gary will be missed up at Tukapa rest in peace Heather
So proud and so privileged to call Gary my Uncle.. what a life of high standards of integrity character and virtue you have lived... humble to a fault.. My love and condolences to all who grieve with me x
Our condolences to Glenyss, and family, such a nice guy and always acknowledged people, and came to chat, when ever he saw you. Will be really missed by Scenic City and members of New Plymouth Rodders. RIP
sincere commiserations to Glenys and all the family. Gary has been a huge help to the committee of Scenic City Rod and Custom club with his willingness to help in many of the clubs events and the duties as officers. many years as the official NZHRA Delegate and unoficial vote counter elswhere. allways visible at club events helping untiring. American car day one example. also as a friend too willing to help with electrical work, his chosen profession.. A very nice man at rest. thank you Gary. See you later.
I met you in 1992. I valued your friendship, your wisdom, your gentleness, your humour, your whole-heartedness in everything you did. Love to Glenyss and family. You are one of the good guys and you will be missed.
On behalf of all New Plymouth Joggers and Walkers club members, and myself personally, we would like to pass on our deepest condolences to Glenyss and the rest of Gary's family. Gary was a life member of the club, his friendly nature, and varied collection of stories and opinions on everything from club rugby to classic cars will be missed, and contributed to the camaraderie that makes us a club and not a collection of individuals. RIP Gary. Greg Chapman Club Captain
Gary. Although I only met you in recent times, I always valued my conversations with you, and felt you were a very level headed , genuine guy. Ka rere to waka ki te hui nui o te mano. Ka arohanui. Larry. {SCHRC}
to Glenyss and family - my sincere condolences on your loss of Gary. he was a great running buddy and was inspirational to us all on how to live a healthy life. we will all miss him terribly.

Funeral service held at Eagars Te Henui Chapel

A simple way to share tributes, receive service reminders, and send flowers or support.
Join the Waitlist