“Gary Edwin James Comley, of Ancaster Ontario, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 28th, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on July 16th, 1939, in Hamilton Ontario to Edgar and Elizabeth Comley and brother to Donald Comley.
Gary spent most of his life on the family farm, where his love for farming and agriculture began at a young age. That passion shaped his life’s work and became a defining part of his legacy. Alongside farming, Gary worked for many years at McMaster University as a machinist, where he helped build the IMAX movie camera and first reactor. In 1978, Gary, along with his son Mark found Shirlmar Farms where their shared love for farming began. It would be common to find them both knee deep in work but always finding time for family and fun.
A devoted father and grandfather, Gary is lovingly remembered by his son Mark (Kari) and daughter Pamela (Ron) who he raised alongside Shirley, grandchildren Paige, Rein, Kylie (Josh), Kelly (Adam) and great-grandchildren Evelyn and Halle. Gary will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Gary will be remembered as a light-hearted, happy man who enjoyed sharing a laugh with friends or casually cruising on a lake basking in the sunlight. Gary’s passion for life leaves a lasting effect on all our hearts and inspires us to savour every moment. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit will live on in the hearts and memories of those who loved him.
Special thanks to staff, nurses and doctors of the Heart Foundation Clinic at the Hamilton General Hospital. As well as DR. Jordan and nurses of the Palliative Care ward 3E at St. Peters Hospital.
A Celebration of Life will be held November 16th from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Knollwood Golf Club (new course), 914 Book Road West in Ancaster.”