An emotional wave of tributes and remembrances poured in all weekend about the Chatham diver who died in Erieau last week.
Gary Smith is being remembered for his friendship, mentorship, and zest for life.
The Chatham-Kent Professional Fire Fighters Union Local 486 posted on social media, extending its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Smith.
"Gary was a respected member of our community and a valued mentor to many dive-certified firefighters. His passing is a tremendous loss. We mourn alongside Gary’s loved ones and honour his legacy through our continued commitment to protecting our community," the union wrote.
Smith was the longtime owner of Red Devil Scuba in Chatham.
His good friend Jamie Taylor said Smith was one of his dive instructors.
"I received my open water dive certificate from his shop. He also inspired me to become a professional dive instructor. He will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him," wrote Taylor.
Longtime friend and dive buddy John Charest wrote that he remembers all the memories they had going on dive trips and helping with Smith's dive classes.
"I will miss him dearly. Thank you for your guidance in the diving community. My condolences to Polly (widow), Stephen (son), and family for your loss," said Charest.
Ron Waxman is mourning the loss of another member of his local dive family.
"I had the chance to dive with him, share ideas, and even teach him a little. We, in Windsor, are heartbroken over this loss and are sending hugs to Polly and his kids. Till we meet again, my friend," wrote Waxman.
Erika Squires said Smith, her dive instructor, was larger than life.
"A wonderful man, who has, unfortunately, left us way too soon. I am gutted. He truly was one of the most wonderful humans I have ever met," said Squires. "We became fast friends. He was always so supportive of my work and loved my wildlife images. You are loved by so many and will be truly missed. Love you lots, Gary."
Dive student Erin Brooks said she is heartbroken to hear about Smith's passing.
"I took my introduction to Scuba diving with Gary. He was such a light-hearted, kind man who always had a smile on his face, and I know many people are going to miss him. My deepest condolences to Polly and the family. Sending hugs and prayers during this horrific time."
Linda Druer said Smith was a true friend and mentor.
"Rest easy, Gary. You were so authentically yourself and shared your many passions with those around you, creating such a wonderful community. Something I have always been proud to be a part of. I will always cherish our memories diving locally and afar, instilling that love of diving in me. Until we meet again. Your friend Lids," said Druer.
Chris Bell thanked Smith for introducing him to the world of scuba diving in 1998.
"A sport that changed my life, challenged me and caused me to grow and brought many good people into my life. And for being someone my mom trusted to do her renovations as she aged. You truly created a community of people around you." Bell wrote.
Friend Gurbeen Bhasin noted that Smith was one of a kind.
"My dear Gary, the love you gave everyone around you will live on forever. Your fun-loving ways of making everyone feel special and immediately comfortable were a superpower, and you shared it abundantly. Thank you for your friendship, love, and amazing hugs, buddy. I know you’ll be missed by so many, and that’s a great testament to the love you shared. My heart is broken," she said.
Smith tragically died while working in the Erieau boat channel. Chatham-Kent police reported on Friday that he went missing on Wednesday and never resurfaced. His body was recovered on Thursday.
His obituary stated he left behind "a life defined by love, laughter, craftsmanship, and a fearless appetite for adventure."
It also pointed out that Smith was born and raised in Manchester and grew up with a big personality and deep curiosity.
"Gary loved his entire family fiercely. He also loved dogs, the open road, the water, and travels with Polly and friends. He was an avid diver, motorcyclist, and traveller, always seeking the next horizon. He built friendships everywhere he went and will be deeply missed by his circle of friends, his diving and motorcycling communities, and the many people he connected with at the gym, the local pubs, the Kent Club, and in Erieau," the obituary said.
Visitation will be held at McKinlay Funeral Home in Chatham on April 14 from 6 to 8 p.m. and on April 15 from 2 to 5 p.m., followed by a private family service.
