Denis Gerald Lajoie
October 18, 1963 – December 6, 2023
December 6, 2023, Denis Gerald Lajoie, loving son, brother, uncle and great uncle, passed away at age sixty. Denis made fast friends everywhere he went and those who knew him well called him Gars Gars.
Gars worked at the National Archives in Ottawa for 30 years before moving to Barrie. He took immense pride in his work, however his passion was sport. Gars competed in a myriad of Special Olympics sports, most notably at Canadian Nationals as a member of the Ontario swim team. A long line of trophies and medals attest to his athletic prowess. In truth, Gars loved everything life had to offer with a joie de vivre that was contagious. He loved traveling, music and was a devoted lifelong Montreal Canadiens fan. He will be remembered as the consummate trickster with an amazing sense of humour; the ultimate house keeper; and amateur performer. Gars’ Elvis impressions were LEGENDARY!
Deeply saddened by his passing are his sister Carole and brother in law Brian Hartzell, niece Stephanie (Travis Gaudet), nephew Bobby (Renee Lapointe) and great nephew and niece, Weston and Bria. He is also survived by his godparents Gerald and Therese Spenard, uncle Georges Lajoie (Lucie Piecki) and aunt Louise Bergeron (Paul). Denis is predeceased by his mother Claire (Spenard) Lajoie. The two were inseparable - now, together again.
Thank you to all the devoted staff of the IOOF in Barrie Ontario for their kindness and care. The family will always remember everything you did for him. Elvis has left the “IOOF” building.
Cremation has taken place. A private family internment will follow at a later time at Notre-Dame Cemetery in Ottawa.