Obituary of Gary Andrew Nieminen

It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Gary Andrew Nieminen, late of Regina, SK, on Friday, October 21, 2016 at the age of 70 years. He was predeceased by his beloved first wife Jeanette and his parents Andrew and Elizabeth; sister Marnie Joy; and brother-in-law Harold Blodgett. Gary is survived by loving partner Joyce; daughters, Krystal Hodge (Kirk), Heather Hartney (Desmond) and Katie Nieminen; six beautiful grandchildren: Anikka, Lily, Hudson, Georgia, Aliya, and Brooks; brother Glen (Francis) McGlaughlin; sister Doris Blodgett; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Gary was born in Cabri, SK and grew up on a farm near Abbey, SK. He attended school at Roe School, Abbey High School and the University of Saskatchewan. He obtained his Civil Engineering degree in 1968 and Masters of Science in Sanitary Engineering in 1970. He met his wife Jeanette at the University of Saskatchewan and they married in 1972. Gary’s career began in Vancouver in 1970. They moved to Regina in 1986 to be closer to family. Gary worked for the City of Regina as manager of Environmental Engineering for 25 years. Following retirement in 2011, Gary started his own company and took on many projects throughout the remainder of his life. Gary had many passions. He loved his daughters and grandchildren more than anything in the world. From giving special sentimental gifts, building playhouses and sandboxes for his children and grandchildren and planning yearly summer family vacations, Gary’s love for his family was evident. He was an avid golfer and curler who enjoyed weekly games with his buddies. Gary was a proud supporter of the NDP, an active gardener and enjoyed spending time outdoors. He will be loved and forever missed. The Celebration of Gary’s life will be held at Speers Funeral Chapel, 2136 College Avenue, Regina, SK, on Saturday, October 29, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. with Michelle Rohde officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gary’s name to the Canadian Cancer Society, 1910 McIntyre St., Regina, SK S4P 2R3 or the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, Unit 26-1738 Quebec Street, Saskatoon, SK, S7K 1V9.