This article honors Gary Fryklind, a great teacher and loving family man. It talks about how he made a big difference as a teacher in Calgary, loved art a lot, and had a strong connection with his family, enjoying things like golf and movies together. The article looks at the good things he did both as a teacher and in his community, his fun times after retiring, and how his good qualities and love live on in his kids.
A Bright Star in Learning and Life
Think about people who change our lives. Often, it’s those who help us in our jobs or life. But sometimes, it’s people we don’t see much who make the biggest difference. Gary Fryklind, dad to Daegan Fryklind (a big name in movies and TV), is one of these special people.
Starting: Building a Great Story
Gary, called “Fryk,” was born on March 31, 1941, in Wadena, Saskatchewan. He grew from a fun-loving teen to a much-loved teacher. After school in Wadena and Teacher’s College in Saskatoon, he joined the Calgary Board of Education. As an art teacher and a student getting his Master’s degree, he began a journey of helping lots of students at Western Canada and John G. Diefenbaker High Schools.
Home Life: Where His Heart Was
Gary’s home life was full of joy. He was the dad to Daegan, Garrick, and Kerby. He shared his love for golf with them, a hobby they still enjoy. His love for movies, a big part of Daegan’s life, came from him, too. In his retirement, Gary enjoyed carpentry, road trips to California, and watching movies with his grandkids. His life was full of different hobbies, showing us how to live with joy and passion.
Saying Goodbye Too Soon
Gary’s life, filled with so much energy and influence, ended suddenly on April 22, 2021. His passing left a mark on his kids and what they’ve done. His death came just before the release of ‘Shadow and Bone,’ a show linked to Daegan, adding a special meaning to his story. His loss during the pandemic made it feel even more dreamlike, especially in Daegan’s moving Father’s Day message.
Touching Lives Beyond Family
Gary’s life wasn’t just about his success. It’s about the quiet, strong ways he affected his kids and, through them, many others. Daegan’s words show us a man who was a true friend, someone who encouraged dreams and supported others, even when he didn’t fully understand their work.
Gary Fryklind: More Than Just a Teacher
Gary Fryklind was not just a regular teacher; he was special. In Calgary’s busy schools, he was like a star, helping and guiding lots of young people. He wasn’t just good at teaching; he loved it and made students love learning, too. His work has left a big mark on his students, who remember his lessons in their different lives.
Art: Speaking Without Words
Fryklind loved teaching art. He saw art as more than just a class subject; it was a way for students to show who they were. In his art classes, students found a teacher and someone who believed in their art. He pushed them to be creative, think differently, and be true to themselves in their art.
Family: His Biggest Love
At the center of Gary’s life was his family. He was a great dad, teaching his kids about hard work, being honest, and following what they love. He and his kids shared interests like golf and movies. These weren’t just hobbies; they were special things that brought them closer and made lasting memories.
Touching Lives Everywhere
Gary’s influence was not limited to school. He was well-known and loved in his community for being helpful and wise. He was easy to talk to and really cared about people, making him a favorite not just among students but everyone around him.
New Adventures in Retirement
When he retired, Fryklind found new things to love and went back to old hobbies. Carpentry was more than a hobby; it showed his love for making things. His trips to California were all about exploring and discovering new things. These activities filled his retirement with excitement and happiness.
Also read: Murray Hone: A Cartoon Hero
Movies: A Shared Passion
Gary’s love for movies, shared with his daughter Daegan, was more than just for fun. It was a way for him to connect with different stories and ideas. This love wasn’t just personal; it brought his family together, giving them a shared love for movies.
Golf: Lessons Beyond the Sport
For Fryklind, golf was not just a game. It was about learning patience, being precise, and not giving up. His love for golf was a way to spend time with his kids and grandkids, sharing lessons and fun times.
A Trusted Friend and Advisor
As his kids grew up, Gary became more than a dad; he was a friend and advisor. He was great at listening, giving advice, and being there for them through good and bad times. This part of him is clearly seen in what Daegan says about him, showing how deep their bond is.
Carpentry: Making Memories
Gary’s interest in carpentry was another way he showed his artistic side. Every piece he made, whether simple or complex, was filled with his care and love. These weren’t just things; they were memories he left for his family, showing his love and skill.
His Last Days and His Lasting Impact
In his last days, Gary Fryklind stayed the same: full of life, love, and joy in little things. His sudden passing left a big gap in the lives of those who knew him. But his legacy lives on. In every lesson he taught, every golf game, every movie night, and every piece of carpentry, Gary Fryklind’s spirit and lessons keep inspiring and guiding.
Ending Thoughts: Remembering a Life Full of Joy
Gary Fryklind’s life teaches us that being important isn’t just about being famous. It’s about how we touch others, inspire a love for things, and support people without making a fuss. Let’s remember Gary not just for who he was but also for how his teachings, his values, and his love keep making a difference through his family and others. In every golf game, movie watched, and road trip his family takes, Gary’s spirit is there, quietly guiding them.
