GARY GORDON POLLARD

Condolences & Memories (54 entries)

• Growing up in Steinbach, I knew him as Gary at church (where he was our youth pastor) and Mr. Pollard at school (where he was our grade 7 & 8 band teacher). A couple years later our family attended one of his recitals at Bemidji State University while on holiday in Minnesota. I had always known he was a good trumpet player but I was blown away by that recital! We lost touch but then in 2011 I saw his name on Facebook commenting on one of his former Oak Park students who later taught band here in Swan River. I connected with Gary briefly, gratified that he remembered me after all those years and students. Then I was saddened to hear of his passing shortly after that, now more than seven years ago. Thank God for people like Gary who leave such a positive legacy! - Posted by: Kevin Penner (Former student ) on: Oct 29, 2019

• Just heard the news today, four months later. Lost touch with my former teacher over the years. Very thankful for the extra time he spent helping me prepare for practicium and theory exams in high school in the late 70's, being an awesome band teacher, (Garden Valley, Winkler, MB), and getting to know the family by babysitting in their home. Thank you both for playing at our wedding in 1980. Thinking of you today Carole, you both being a great Christian example. Gwen Peters - Posted by: Gwen Peters (Former student and baby sitter) on: Jun 14, 2014

• Gary was my band teacher in winkler, i played the trumpet poorly and eventually went on to singing, but i will never forget his talent, his positive attitude and warm personality. thank you Gary for your influence, your music, and your love. phillip - Posted by: phillip ens (student ) on: May 27, 2013

• Mr. Pollard was the most gentle of persuaders, challenging me to "try a new instrument, if not cause I wanted to, but for my Embouchure...(sounded super fancy...just meant try the trumpet, and leave my woodwind behind) He made me love band all over again, even if it meant giving up 1st flute and sitting 3rd chair trumpet cause I truly sucked in my new brass instrument...I so wanted to make his efforts pay off, and although I never was able to make my trumpet sing, he was the reason I "needed" to see Dizzy Gillespie in concert and love the memory this day, to your family, my most loving thoughts and prayers on this difficult loss, and because his inspiring way transcends so many years, my sincere appreciation for the years he was my teacher...Most Sincerely, Kathy Thackray nee Braid student Westdale and Oak Park early through mid 80's - Posted by: Kathy Thackray nee Braid (Student) on: Feb 12, 2013

• Hi Carole, I just 'happened' to see Gary's obituary on the web. I'm so sorry to hear of his passing. I always loved hearing him play his trumpet at WBC and later in the brass quintet. I remember you and Gary and Rae and Ruth playing in a music group. I enjoyed my piano lessons with you but wish that I had practiced more. May God give you his continued comfort and strength. God bless you! Allan Dueck Ps I married a gal from Germany and we have 3 adult kids and. 4 grand kids. - Posted by: Allan Dueck (Fellow student at WBC) on: Dec 15, 2012

• Carole & Family: We were so saddened to hear of Gary's passing. Have fond memories of Parkview Drive. Loved to hear Gary perform and with you on piano, Carole, was awesome. Our most Sincere Sympathy. Ray and Myrna Downey - Posted by: Ray & Myrna Downey (Winkler Parkview Drive Neighbours) on: Mar 20, 2012

• I've just learned of this terribly sad news.. Mr Pollard (still feels strange to refer to him as Gary) was a wonderful man and a great inspiration. I spent many hours in his bandroom in Westdale Jr High and then Oak Park High School. He introduced me to the music of PDQ Bach, he laughed along with us as we made disgusting sounds with ketchup bottles at restaurants on band trips, indulge my requests for his Maynard Ferguson impression at the drop of a hat, and allowed me to rig up the sound effect of a cannon during Concert Band for the 1812 Overture that knocked over the flute section. He was extremely kind and patient, and always made school feel fun. I lost touch with him for about 20 years, until he emailed me out the blue, and I'm glad we made a small connection before he passed away. He told me what his family was up to and how large it's grown, and I know his memory will live on. My condolences to his wife, sons and family. Thank you for sharing his humour, talent and generous spirit with me and everyone who knew him. - Posted by: Lee Rosevere (former student (84-90)/friend) on: Mar 19, 2012

• Gary was a gifted musician, an outstanding teacher, and a true Christian gentleman. I was privileged to have known him as a friend and as a colleague. Sincere condolences to his family. - Posted by: Rob Williams (friend and colleague) on: Mar 10, 2012

• Carole and family, I am so very sorry to hear of Gary's passing after a bout with cancer. I can still picture him playing in a concert in the CNC gymnasium on Lee Blvd. I had high regard for him and for you, and cherish the years when we all worked at CNC! God be with you as you go through this time of mourning. - Posted by: Helen Myers () on: Feb 26, 2012

• Mr. Pollard was my band teacher at Oak Park High. He was a wonderful educator and a real gentlemen. I learned a great deal from him about music and life. - Posted by: Patrick Lawrence (Former Student (Class of 95)) on: Feb 24, 2012

• I had the privilege of taking trumpet lessons from Gary and piano lessons from his wife Carole at Canadian Nazarene College. Both of them were amazing teachers and musicians. They brought out the best in me and encouraged me beyond what I thought I could do. May God's peace envelop you all; Carole, Chad, Dean and your families. - Posted by: Barbara Craig Manswell (former student from Canadian Nazarene College) on: Feb 20, 2012

• Mr. Pollard was my band teacher at Oak Park High. He had an amazing ability to teach music - always a smile and with humour. He was a wonderful teacher and person. I am very saddened by Mr. Pollard's passing. He will be greatly missed and always remembered. Sincere condolences to Mrs. Pollard, Chad and Dean, and families. - Posted by: Karen Spence (nee Durrant) (Former student) on: Feb 18, 2012

• To Mr. Pollard's family, I am so very sorry for your loss. Mr. Pollard was my jazz and concert band teacher at Oak Park and how lucky I was to be one of his students. I recall several Gold Medals at National band festivals for our crew over the 3 years he taught us and a lot of laughs. We had so much respect for his talent as a conductor and a musician. Deepest condolences. - Posted by: Susan Cooley (Student) on: Feb 18, 2012

• My sincerest condolences to you and your family Carole. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. - Posted by: Darrell Falk (Piano Student) on: Feb 18, 2012

• Mr. Pollard was my band teacher at Westdale Junior high. He encouraged me as I was not very good at playing the flute! However, I stuck with it through till grade 9. Performing at school concerts and at the Optimist Band Festivals will always be a great memories. Thank you Mr.Pollard! - Posted by: Danielle Cudmore (nee Chabai) (Former student) on: Feb 18, 2012

• Gary was my trumpet teacher since I started playing at 8 years old. I will always remember his tremendous patience and gifting as a teacher. I could only dream of playing as well as he could. I'm sure that our heavenly father handed Gary a shiny new trumpet the moment he got up to heaven and I'm sure he'll get to use it. Carole, Chad and Dean it was a honor to have known Gary, I'm sorry for your loss. We shall meet again! - Posted by: Kevin Radtke ((Former trumpet student)) on: Feb 18, 2012

• By any standard, Gary was a giant. His musical abilities put him at a level where he had few peers. Even physically, he was an imposing figure. However, the characteristics that stand out the most are his gentleness and humbleness. Always showing an interest in others, he showed a genuine interest in those around him and strove to bring out the best in them, rather than taking centre stage himself. Gary left a legacy of worship as well. Whether it was by being a youth pastor in Steinbach, building up a house church in Winkler, or by being part of the foundation of Grace Bible Church in Winnipeg, he built the kingdom wherever he went. His musical contributions at worship services spoke more deeply to people than many sermons. As stated in Luke, he was “in the temple, praising and blessing God” Chad continues to bring out the best in young people in the band classroom, building a foundation that will serve them and those around them well as they move into their adult lives. Dean is carrying on the tradition of bringing notes on a page to life, moving those privileged to hear him into areas that only trumpet music can carry them. Two amazing sons – what a legacy! We are honoured to have known him, and are thankful that we are able to call him our brother. - Posted by: Curtis & Beverly Penner (brother-in-law) on: Feb 18, 2012

• Both Gary and Carole were the main musical influences in my life during those teenage years. I remember Gary silently doing karate kicks and chops behind someone who was talking... always made me laugh. He was the reason we went to the national band festival in Toronto. Both Carole and Gary put love and laughs into life and music. - Posted by: Glen Barkman (former student) on: Feb 17, 2012

• Hi Chad and Jill; Chad, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your father. I heard from a great many band teacher at Pembina Trails School that he was a great teacher. He will be deeply missed. I did not know that he taught at oak Park High. That is one of my favorite schools to EA at. My prayers are with all of you. Blessings from Elizabeth Dyck and family - Posted by: Elizabeth Dyck (friend ) on: Feb 17, 2012

• Mr. Pollard was my band teacher at Oak Park. I still have fond memories of those classes and performances. He was patient, kind and had a quirky sense of humour; he made struggling to learn to play the clarinet enjoyable. Clearly Mr. Pollard made a significant impact in many people's lives. He will be sorely missed, may his family and friends find peace at this difficult time. - Posted by: Krista Bachynski (nee Enns) (former student) on: Feb 17, 2012

• Mr. Pollard was a great teacher and friend. He showed compassion and caring to everyone. I was not the most talented of students, but he was always patient with me. He was the inspiration for me to become a teacher. While things are quieter here, there is some beautiful trumpet music playing in heaven now. He will be missed. - Posted by: Cindy Mitchell (former student) on: Feb 16, 2012

• My relationship with Gary was a very distant one. I've had the opportunity to admire him as a stellar musician for the last ten years. The first time I saw him play was at an Easter sunrise service in Steinbach. I have been able to enjoy his playing in that venue and many more for many years since. He helped to make Easter come alive on those mornings! I say that my relationship was distant - primarily as an admirer. This is true, but yet as a U of M music student and Winnipeg-area vocalist, I've shared the stage with him more times than I can count. We just never had the chance to have a conversation. But I didn't need one to know that Gary belonged to God and lived his life with a strong faith and with integrity. I will continue to admire that more than his astounding musicianship. Thank you, Gary, for continuing to inspire in your absence. Thank you, God, for allowing us to be with him, if only for a brief period in this lifetime. - Posted by: Michael Dueck () on: Feb 16, 2012

• The music world has lost a shining star with the passing of Mr.Pollard....I'm 42 years old and I still can't call him by his first name! I met him as my music teacher at Westdale Junior High, where he taught me how to use my voice as the wonderful instrument it is, and how to play (badly) the trumpet and French horn. I was a terrible instrumentalist, and never did learn how to read music, but Mr. P never gave up on me, encouraging my vocal talents right through high school at Oak Park. His was the kind of teaching you remember, and clearly, I do. You may never know the impact you had on my life, Mr. P...but I still sing today because of you. You made a difference...and I will never forget you because of your love and dedication to your students and your craft. You will be missed. - Posted by: Laura Warren (Former student) on: Feb 16, 2012

• I will never forget my lessons with Gary. Not only were they my first trumpet lessons, but they were an opportunity to sit in a room with a genuine and approachable teacher and friend, sharing everything from music to vacation plans. I wish I could have gotten to know him better, as he was such a warm and welcoming grandfatherly figure. I will always cherish the memory of playing beside him in the Winnipeg Winds as a high school guest; student and teacher working together. It was truly an honour and a joyous occasion. While I no longer have the privilege of studying with him I will always have him in mind as my musical journey continues. My heart goes out to the family, who has even for the short time I've known them always shared his positive, loving and welcoming attitude. - Posted by: Miles Thomsen (Former trumpet student) on: Feb 16, 2012

• Sorry to hear of Gary's passing. I also played trumpet in the Patterson Collegiate Band - not nearly as good as Gary was. Glad to see that he used his gift well - and it was a great gift. My condolences to the family. Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. - Posted by: Sue Baxter (School Friend) on: Feb 16, 2012

• Hi Carole. Saddened to hear of Gary`s passing. May you and your family find comfort in the Lord. - Posted by: Lynda Schroeder(Dyck) (high school friends) on: Feb 16, 2012

• Gary touched the lives of a great number of people, and his legacy will live on through his students and many friends. He was an excellent musician and a fabulous teacher, and he will be missed. We will never be able to fill the void that is now left, but we will all continue the musical & educational work he was committed to, hopefully with the same grace and faith that he demonstrated. - Posted by: Richard Gillis (colleague) on: Feb 16, 2012

• We are grateful for Gary's investment in young lives for God's kingdom through his ministry here at Emmanuel. We cannot even place a value on a heritage of impacted lives. May the peace and blessing of God's presence carry you as the family in the days ahead. - Posted by: Terry Kaufman (Senior Pastor, Emmanuel Evangelical Free Church) on: Feb 16, 2012

• Gary,you blessed our lives and we are righer for knowing you. We remember the twinkle in your eye and your great sense of humour,the warmth of your heart and hugs.Thank you for the joy of sharing our lives. See you soon. We'll always love you! Jake and Ruth - Posted by: Jake and Ruth Friesen (freinds ) on: Feb 16, 2012

• Mr. Pollard was my band teacher at Oak Park High School from 1990 to 1992. He was a wonderful teacher and a great man. I had the utmost respect for him and I have always thought warmly of him. His integrity and compassion were always evident. His life clearly impacted many and his faith shone through without him having to say a word. I was very saddened to hear of his passing. My condolences to the family and to his friends. I know he will be sorely missed. - Posted by: Cheryl Thiessen (nee Cooke) (Former student) on: Feb 16, 2012

• Gary was a great teacher to our children, was a wise and talented friend! May God be your comfort, Carole and family! - Posted by: Don & Gloria Dyck () on: Feb 16, 2012

• Gary was a friend and inspiration. He got me back playing again after a 25 year lay-off. I will miss the occasional "honking" sessions as he would call them. He was a great trumpet player and a "gentle old soul" and will be sorely missed. I can imagine him playing duets with the angel Gabriel right about now! May God be with you Carole and family. - Posted by: Terrance Klassen () on: Feb 16, 2012

• Many years ago, the band teacher (also a trumpet player) at our local high school in Altona, where I was teaching, passed away at the age of 29 as a result of cancer. A funeral service was held in the school gym, and Gary came to play a tribute. The congregation sang the hymn, "It is well with my Soul", and the when the words, "the trumpet shall sound" were sung, Gary came in loud and clear with his trumpet. It was electrifying! I can just picture those two trumpet players enjoying each other now in the halls of glory! - Posted by: Frank Kehler () on: Feb 15, 2012

• Mr. Pollard was one of those teachers who a student remembers forever. He had a great teaching style and made each and every band class fun. He taught me concert band and two jazz bands throughout all of high school. After graduation I enjoyed running into him when he performed at my church as well as catching up on what has happened since high school. I'll never forget him driving into the gym on a motor cycle to kick off one of our musicals "Greece". He will be greatly missed. To his family, you are in my thoughts and prayers. - Posted by: Jennifer Chorney (Graham) (Past student) on: Feb 15, 2012

• My wife Michelle and I were lucky enough to have Gary and friends play our wedding ceremony in 2005. He will be missed. - Posted by: Craig Holigroski (Friend) on: Feb 15, 2012

• I am sorry to hear about Gary's passing but am comforted to know that he is with the Lord and resting peacefully. I met Gary and his family 20 years ago at Grace Bible Church. In the two years that I lived in Winnipeg, I was blessed to have known him and his kindness, grace, friendliness and generous spirit. I am grateful that we crossed paths and will always remember Gary. We will all miss you very much, Gary. - Posted by: Peter Lee (Friend) on: Feb 15, 2012

• Praying peace on the hearts of his family. May you find comfort in this time of grief. - Posted by: Chantel () on: Feb 15, 2012

• I concern myself lucky to have had such a wondeful teacher. Thank you for having faith in me, when I didn't have faith in myself. - Posted by: Karen Latimer (Former Student OP Class of 89) on: Feb 15, 2012

• Gary Pollard was my band teacher in Winkler and fostered in me a life long love of music. I played the clarinet, he encouraged me to improve and practice and I played quite well as a result. Gary made music fun, going to band class or practicing was never a chore. I still play once in a while and have a love for live band music. Thank you Gary for your gift of sharing your music with us. Hugs to Gary's family. Sincerely, Tammy - Posted by: Tammy Janz (nee Friesen) (Gary was my band teacher in Winkler) on: Feb 15, 2012

• While I never excelled at my instrument nor did I even practice - Mr. Pollard was always positive and encouraging. By far one of the most influential teachers I had at Oak Park. You will be greatly missed. May you have peace. - Posted by: Tamara Rowland (Former Student) on: Feb 15, 2012

• You are in my thoughts and prayers. I attended Broadway- First Baptist Church and am a member of the G&S society and I throughly loved listening to Gary play. It was a blessing.God Bless. - Posted by: Nancy Cameron () on: Feb 15, 2012

• I love my memories of Gary! I have admired his playing since I was a little kid learning to play the trombone. I remember seeing him on a billboard, looking extremely elegant, with his trumpet, lounging on a beautiful white leather couch. I saw this four times a week on my way home from choir! Mostly, I loved playing music with Gary. For about 14 years, Gary, Dean and I would play a beautiful church service on Christmas eve. I would be sure to fly home from Montreal so as not to miss this wonderful and happy Christmas tradition. He taught me when I wasn't even trying to learn. Most recently, he was joining in my school band rehearsals as a mentor for new teachers. We always laughed, learned and ultimately shared the love of music. Thanks for the great music and the great company, Gary! - Posted by: Ross Bownlee (Christmas Quartet Partner) on: Feb 15, 2012

• A great band teacher (Oak Park, class of '00) I had the pleasure of being able to catch up with him again at the Millennium Band Workshop last year where Gary signed on as the Trumpet instructor. The music community in Winnipeg was much richer for his presence and contributions, he will be greatly missed. - Posted by: Garret Rempel (former student) on: Feb 15, 2012

• I will always remember Mr. Pollard's passion and dedication to his students. He instilled in us the joy that comes from playing beautiful music together. He will be fondly remembered as an extraordinary teacher. - Posted by: Lindsay Chase (Former Student) on: Feb 15, 2012

• I knew Gary from the many free-lance jobs we both did together as well as when he would play with the WSO, where I was principal. He was a wonderful friend and a truly great human being. He will be missed very much by all the people whose lives he touched. - Posted by: Vincent Ellin (Colleague) on: Feb 15, 2012

• I am speechless with sadness. I encouraged Gary to play trumpet and chase his passions which he did. We spent many hours talking trumpet and was glad to see him perform so much. I know his family and I will miss him, but his incredible spirit, humour, statesmen ship, and courage will be long remembered. God's blessing to the family. - Posted by: Ken Austin (Friend, former trumpeter in Winnipeg.) on: Feb 15, 2012

• Although only 5 years older than Gary,I am his great aunt...long story. We were both only children living only 2 blocks from each other so were very close. I can tell you that the qualities Gary showed as a man were there at a very young age. He was very loving, sharing & thoughtful & loved a good laugh. Even as a young child he could toot that trumpet, winning many contests. His legacy is his music & wonderful family. I will really miss him. - Posted by: Grace Leach (Great aunt) on: Feb 15, 2012

• Although I did not know Gary, I know his son Dean. If Dean's character and heart is any bit of a reflection of his father's, I could only imagine how great of a man Gary is. My sincerest condolescences to Dean Katherine and the entire Pollard family! - Posted by: Rod Minaker (friend of Gary's son Dean) on: Feb 15, 2012

• He was one of the kindest and most inspirational people I have ever met- Always ready to lend a helping hand. - Posted by: Kirsten Bunge () on: Feb 15, 2012

• Best band teacher ever. He will be missed. Always loved hearing him play at G&S productions. - Posted by: David Blanchette (Former Student) on: Feb 15, 2012

• Gary played the trumpet at our Remembrance Day service every year. His graciousness and willingness to be here and offer his gift of music and himself to us will always be remembered. We will always miss him being here in our presence. - Posted by: Rev. Karen Lumley (Minister at St. Andrew's United Chruch) on: Feb 15, 2012

• He was an impressive man, both on the trumpet and in his personal life. He has gone on to a much better place. Though we'll miss him, we can know that he is with his Father in Heaven. His faith and determination in life are inspirations for all that knew him. - Posted by: Brady Russell () on: Feb 15, 2012

• Hi Carole, It is with sadness that I heard about Gary's passing. I always loved to hear Gary playing his trumpet. You will be remembered in my prayers as this is a difficult time to go through. I am still in Winkler and am a substitute teacher at present. Still remember you and all the Penners. - Posted by: Marilyn Penner (family friend from Rosefarm Days) on: Feb 15, 2012

• Mostly, Gary was a friend. We often went to lunch together. We played horn/trumpet duets and had a common interest in Bemidji State Univ. When I was member of the Winnipeg Winds, I used to put my horn down just to listen to him play. He will be missed. I miss him. - Posted by: Mark Christianson (Friend, Duet Partner) on: Feb 15, 2012