Grant Manery, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on Thursday, February 1, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer and Parkinson’s. Grant's departure leaves a profound void in the lives of those who cherished him deeply.
Grant's memory will forever be cherished by his beloved wife of 60 years, Donna; his sons and daughters-in-law, Rob and Robyn, Ken and Lee, Rich, and Mike; his cherished grandson, Isaac; his brothers, Elwood (Woody) and his wife Patricia, and Neil; and several nephews and nieces. He is preceded in death by his brothers Glen and Lyle, and sisters-in-law Betty, Lilas, and Michèle.
Grant was born on September 22, 1936, in Leamington, Ontario, to Ivan and Dorothy Manery. Raised on a farm, he embodied the values of hard work and perseverance from an early age. His journey led him to Queen's University, where he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering, laying the foundation for a remarkable career ahead.
Following his graduation, Grant embarked on a career path marked by innovation and dedication. His work at EMI in Ottawa saw him pioneering advancements in electronic ignition systems and car interior lighting. Subsequently, his tenure with the federal government spanned an impressive 30 years, during which he made significant contributions to the Department of Communications and later the Department of Transportation, where his work took him across the globe.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Grant was deeply involved in his community. From his leadership role in the Boy Scouts, to his presidency at the R.C.M.P. Curling Club, his involvement of the Ottawa Kinsmen and the local community’s children’s play group, he left an indelible mark wherever he went. Grant's commitment to service extended to the establishment of the first Neighbourhood Watch in Beacon Hill, reflecting his unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of others.
Grant's legacy transcends his professional achievements and community involvement. He was admired for his integrity, honesty, and unwavering sense of justice, traits that defined his character and influenced those around him. His sense of humor brought joy to countless hearts, while his kindness, gentleness and generosity touched many lives in profound ways.
In his leisure time, Grant found solace in simple pleasures—playing Euchre, Curling, fishing, woodworking, coin collection, tracing his family tree, building puzzles, and sharing treats with the neighborhood dogs. His love for his family, especially his weekly Zoom calls with his sons and grandson, and sneaking treats to Jasper brought him immense joy.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Lajeunese, Vanessa, Isabelle, Katrina, and the compassionate nurses from St. Elizabeths for their exceptional care and support.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Grant's honor can be made to Parkinson Canada and/or the Ottawa Humane Society, causes close to his heart.
Grant's departure leaves an irreplaceable void, but his spirit will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to have known him. May his soul find eternal peace, and may his legacy endure through the countless lives he touched. Dad, you will be deeply missed and will always remain in our hearts and memories.
A celebration of his life will be held on Thursday March 28th from 1 to 4pm at the Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa.
Nos sincères condoléances à la famille Manery 🙏
Grant - and the Manery family, touched our lives from the first week in our new Ottawa home 9 years ago. A kind, gentle, sharp witted soul ( :-) ) seldom apart from his beloved Donna - he was a joy to engage with, even through difficult moments, and always happy to patiently listen to Gabe's Dad-jokes and chuckle away quietly - but what a keen eye for detail, and ear for the discussions all about. You were clearly a great Dad and it shows, through your kids. Equally an exceptional husband, based on our experience through those short years we had the privilege of knowing you.
We will miss you, Grant, and truly believe that we know deep within our hearts, that you have found that place which was always your destiny - and ours, when comes our own time.
Until we meet again
in friendship
Gabe and Lynda