March 7, 1940 - February 26, 2019
Gary Allen Tupper, 78, of Terrace died peacefully Feb. 26 in Prince George, after a brief illness, surrounded by his family.
Gary was born in Nelson, B.C. to Owen Tupper and Bonnie Tupper (Bowell) on March 7, 1940. The family later moved to Vancouver where he attended Bayview Elementary and Kitsilano Secondary School. He earned a Bachelor's Degree with Majors in Mathematics and Philosophy from UBC in 1962 and a Secondary Education professional certificate in 1966.
Gary met his wife, Linda Ruben while at UBC. They married on April 11, 1968 in Dawson Creek. Daughter Laura was born in Vancouver in 1969. Son Jeff was born in 1971 and daughter Christine in 1973, both in Terrace.
Gary taught high school mathematics and computer science in Ocean Falls and Dawson Creek before moving to Terrace in 1969, where he taught at Skeena Junior High and Caledonia Senior Secondary. In Terrace, Gary could fully indulge his love for the outdoors, canoeing, camping and fishing. Family camping trips often included his beloved cats.
His home was under constant renovation and is a tribute to his carpentry skills and unique design sense. The Tupper Christmas parties were legendary.
In 1988 he and son Jeff started a business developing and selling educational software. Following retirement from teaching in 1999, Gary enjoyed coffee and a crossword puzzle daily and never missed a chance to chat with friends and strangers. Gary also spent hours on genealogical research into obscure branches of his family tree, and meetings with the 'Yacht Club' were much enjoyed.
Gary was active in the BCTF and TDTU, serving in most local executive positions. He was also involved in the Skeena NDP Constituency Association, most recently as membership secretary.
Gary is lovingly remembered by his wife, Linda, his children, Laura (Andrew), Jeff (Brenda), Christine (Craig) and grandchildren Amanda, Simon, Calla and Sarah; his brother Dan (Kim), two half-siblings, two stepsisters, and many other family members. He was predeceased by his parents, Owen Tupper and Bonnie Graham and stepfather Martin Graham.
The family would like to thank the medical team in the Intensive Care Unit at University Hospital of Northern B.C. for their care and the many friends who have provided support during this difficult time. A celebration of life will be held this summer. Memorial donations may be made to the Caledonia Endowment Fund with Northwest Education 88 Foundation at 3211 Kenney St., Terrace, B.C. V8G 3E9.