Gary Wayne Seher, born October 16, 1943, in Medicine Hat, Alberta to Peter and Clara Seher, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026 at the age of 82.

Gary completed his education in Medicine Hat. He was employed by S.S. Kresge and was transferred to North Battleford in 1965; where he discovered his love of business and the love of his life, Judy Bender who worked in the office there. The two were married in 1965 in North Battleford and began their lives together. Gary and Judy experienced several moves throughout Gary’s management career, eventually settling in Red Deer to plant roots. He began employment with The Gelmon Corporation in 1971, owner of Parkland Mall. Mr. Al Gelmon encouraged Gary to pursue the CSM certification (Certified Shopping Centre Management), and was 1 of 25 in Canada that successfully achieved this certification. Gary managed Parkland Mall with an incredible and very capable team along side of him from 1974 to his retirement in 2002.

Concurrently, Gary also represented Chatters Green Apple in their leasing department for a period of time. Gary came out of retirement to manage Bower Place Shopping Centre for 6 years, retiring fully at the age of 70. Throughout his management years Gary sat on many boards and committees, and he received much recognition of his efforts from the Mayor of Red Deer to Red Deer Polytechnic. The absolute highlight was the 1995 World Junior Hockey Championships held in Red Deer, for which he was Chairman. Gary was a humble man, one of integrity and good character. With all of his accomplishments nothing tops his dedication as a Husband, Dad, Grandpa and Great Grandpa.

He often helped others without expecting acknowledgement or recognition; he remained quiet about those kindnesses. We are hearing many stories about Garys’s mentorship and advocacy for others. Gary and Judy were an incredible team, celebrating their 60th Wedding Anniversary on September 25, 2025. A warm welcome and a hospitable home was enjoyed and shared by many, even a Russian hockey Mom and his sister where there was a language barrier. Their home was colour blind and all were welcome! Gary enjoyed many activities and hobbies throughout his life. He had a passion for sports, primarily hockey and baseball. He also enjoyed downhill skiing as a family; with trips to Sunshine Ski Resort each Easter with friends. Gary spent many hours in Jim Hollmans woodworking shop building furniture, urns, logos and many unique projects, including a beautiful wooden cradle, wooden rocking horse, and an old-fashioned wood sled for great-grandsons Wilson, Henry and Oliver.

Gary enjoyed golfing with his buddy Al Boomer at Innisfail Golf Course, camping with friends and family over his 82 years; most recently, camping at the HAL Campground; Hollmans Assisted Living Campground! In Gary’s retirement he and Judy enjoyed travelling with friends to Europe, as well as many trips south to Charlotte, North Caroline to visit Kurt and family. Arizona was also enjoyed during our harsh Alberta winters.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Judy; daughter, Kristen; son-in-law, Melvin Klassen; grandson, Tyler Brown; granddaughter Madisyn Lovell (Joe) and their boys, Wilson, Henry and Oliver; granddaughters, Mayce Seher and Evyn Seher; sister-in-law, Barbara Spratt (Ron), niece, Melissa Spratt Anderson (Layne), their children Ireland and Berlin; brother-in-law, Wayne Bender (Wendy); nephew, Brad Bender (Stephanie), their children Theo, Claire, and Alex; nephew RJ Bender (Michelle) and their child Sunny; sister-in-law, Bea Seher; niece, Denise Seher; nephew Beau-J Seher (Leanne) and their children, Olivia and Ben as well as numerous extended family members and friends.

Gary was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Clara Seher; son, Kurt Seher; brother, Dennis Seher; in-laws, Floyd and Marjorie Bender and nephew, Gregory Spratt.

Garys celebration of life will be held Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 11:00am, at Deerpark Alliance Church, 2960 – 39th Street, Red Deer, Alberta, with Pastor Andrew Rilling officiating. For those wishing to make donations in lieu of flowers, please make cheques payable to The Mustard Seed (Red Deer) or The Red Deer Dream Centre, thank you.

Livestream viewing will be available at https://www.youtube.com/@DeerParkChurch/streams

Condolences to Gary’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Gary Seher” in the subject line.

 

Arrangements in care of

Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service

A locally owned cremation and funeral provider

serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta

587-876-4944

• Date : 2026-02-18
• Location : Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service, Red Deer AB "Locally Owned"