Gary David Hancock

It is with great sadness that the family of Gary David Hancock announces his peaceful passing at PRHC, with family by his side, on March 20, 2026. Gary shared an extraordinary 73-year partnership with his wife, Gail, and together they built a life defined by love and family. He was immensely proud of his son, Peter (Cathy), daughter, Jennifer Cuddie (Michael) and his grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Sara Hancock, and Hanna and Samantha Cuddie.

Gary was born and raised in Peterborough, Ontario, to Gordon and Ethel Hancock. He was the younger brother of Douglas (late Gwen) and the older brother of the late David (Brenda). His upbringing was both loving and industrious, marked by the summers he spent helping build the family cottage at Sandy Lake.

His professional life began as an educator teaching secondary school at PCVS and Crestwood Secondary School where he taught mathematics and physical education and was a dedicated basketball coach. After 10 years in teaching, Gary took a summer to try his hand at home construction, building his family a home, mostly on his own, from the ground up. He had discovered his love for building and soon Gary Hancock Construction was established. He spent the remainder of his career as a respected custom home builder, becoming known for his integrity and craftsmanship and building more than 70 custom homes in the Peterborough area.

Gary was an avid outdoorsman. Yearly fishing trips to Algonquin Park and hunting trips to Dewdney Mountain near Bobcaygeon nurtured deep friendships and cherished memories. The stories Gary told of the antics of these trips delighted his family and anyone lucky enough to be within earshot. He had a lifelong fondness for antiques, old cars, boats and tractors, of which he owned many.

In retirement, Gary and Gail loved to travel. Together, in their RV home on wheels, they covered most of the continent, including adventures to Alaska and the Yukon. With time to tend to his creative pursuits, he fashioned beautiful wood turned pieces and cabinetry and wonderful flower gardens. Gary's happiest times were with family at Gold Lake. It was there that 'Papa' created deep and lasting bonds with his grandchildren through his playfulness, humor, and his genuine interest in their lives.

Gary was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, son and friend. He was generous, witty, and wise and provided a love to his family that was quiet and constant and will be deeply missed.

There will be a gathering to share memories of Gary at Highland Park Funeral Centre, 2510 Bensfort Road in Peterborough on April 22 from 2:00 - 4:00 PM. As per Gary's wishes, cremation and interment have taken place. Condolences may be forwarded through highlandparkfuneralcentre.com. For those who wish, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Peterborough Regional Health Centre.