Dr. Gary Ablett

Ablett, Dr Gary – a long-time resident of Blenheim passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, late Sunday, April 4, 2010, at the age of 58, following an inspiring battle with brain cancer. Gary left this world knowing that he was loved deeply by his wife Jane of 34 years, and sons Jeffrey, with his fiancé Kerri, and Gregory, all of Vancouver. Gary, predeceased by his mother Gene, leaves behind his father, Richard Ablett of Burlington, and father-in-law, Frank Talbourdet of Blenheim. He also leaves his brother Steve and his wife Jackie, their daughters Elise and Taylor, and extended family throughout Canada.

Gary earned his doctorate at the University of Guelph and served for a decade as Director at the University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus. A professor, researcher and consultant in the field of soybean genetics, he will be remembered for his vision and contribution to agriculture and a deep commitment to higher learning. Gary took pride in the work of the students he mentored, and celebrated their achievements. He was the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions throughout his career, including recently being named Agriculturist of the Year. An avid golfer, Gary will be fondly remembered by his golf buddies and for his dedication to the Blenheim Golf Course.

Visitation will be at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home, Thursday, April 8, between 2:00 – 4:00 PM and 7:00 – 9:00 PM. A memorial service will be held at the Rudy H. Brown Rural Development Centre at the University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus on Friday, April 9 at 1:30 PM. A private interment at Evergreen Cemetery in Blenheim will take place Saturday, April 10. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Gary to the Ridgetown Campus Agri-Food Foundation (University of Guelph) or the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada (www.braintumour.ca) would be greatly appreciated.