Gary Jay Poole passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on Saturday, September 7,2013. The Poole family own and operate Buckeye Marine in Bobcaygeon, Ontario, one of the leading marinas in all of North America.

Buckeye Marine was established in 1949 by maternal grandfather Tom Thompson as a bait and tackle shop on the water. Son-in-law Frank Poole brought mechanical expertise from his background in the automotive industry and together they ventured into boat and motor rental and repair. Over time, grandsons Gary, David and Chris joined the business and it grew into a substantial sales and service facility.

In 1990, Buckeye Marine moved to the current Hwy., #36 location and both of Gary and Debbie Poole’s children, Carly and Jay are now active in the family business as well. In 2006, Buckeye Marine became Canada’s first Five-Star Certified Marina and for many years now, the business has been ranked in the Top 10 marinas in North America.

Gary and other members of the Poole family have given generously of their time and resources over the years to support their community, charitable causes and the marine industry in particular. His obituary describes Gary as the dearly beloved husband of Debbie (nee Hector).  Beloved father of Carly and Jay (Ally).  Loving son of Joyce and the late Frank.  Brother to David (Monica) and Chris (Cathy).  Gary will be missed by his wonderful nephews, nieces and extended family and friends.  

Family and friends will be received at Monk Funeral Home, 6 Helen Street, Bobcaygeon (705-738-3222 or 866-393-0063) on Tuesday from 7-9 p.m. and on Wednesday from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.  Funeral service at Trinity United Church, 42 William Street, Bobcaygeon on Thursday, September 12, 2013 at 1 p.m.  

Interment will be at a later date.  If desired, memorial donations to Ross Memorial Hospital or the Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Program at Royal Victoria Hospital would be appreciated.  

Messages of condolence, donations, memories and photos may be shared at www.monkfuneralhome.com