Gayle Lehman

Gayle Lehman, a long-time resident of Erieau passed away on October 20, 2026.  She will be missed by her children Denise and Graham Brown and Gary and Wanda Lehman, and her grandchildren Aidan, Sarah, Ryan, Hannah and Owen.  She was predeceased by her husband Gary Allan Lehman in 1991, her parents, Margaret Embury and Fredrick Embury and her brother, Bob Embury.

Gayle was also predeceased by her partner of over 25 years, Larry Clark in 2025 and she will be missed by his children Brandy and Chad Minnie, Kendall Haskell and Drew Brown,  Craig and Stacey Clark and grandchildren Evan, Cooper, Ashton, Kaylee, Greyson and Dayton.

They say “Home is where the Heart is” and Gayle’s heart was forever in Erieau.  She was born and raised there, surrounded by extensive family and lifelong friends.  She worked at Erieau Packers, Southwestern Regional Centre, a Daycare and after she retired, she went back to work in the canteen at the Blenheim Arena.

Gayle was a wonderful mother and loved her children deeply.  She was never shy to share a story about them.  She was an even prouder grandmother.  She was kind to everyone she met.  She loved to dance, laugh, eat good food and work in her yard.  She cherished her walks to the water and to the ice cream store in the summer months.  Gayle was happiest sitting by the water or on her front porch, keeping an eye on all the activity on the boulevard.  She shared a beautiful life with Gary raising their kids together before he passed.

Gayle was then fortunate to find love and companionship again with Larry.  Together they travelled to Halifax, spent time sitting by the water, enjoyed rides on Larry’s motorcycle and could often be found in the stands at their grandkid’s hockey games.  She loved life and she was so loved in return.

Gayle also loved “her girls” – Sally, Cathy, Sandy, Gloria and Val…a friendship group that has stood the test of time.  We know there are stories from those years that they will always treasure and probably a few they will never share!

So much respect and thanks to the staff at the Alzheimer’s Society of York Region and CHATS Day programs in Aurora. Gayle spent many days with them over the last few years and was appreciative of her coffee time with her friends. There are also so many that have helped over the last years in caring for Gayle, for whom we have endless gratitude.  Your kindness, patience and support meant more to her, and our family than words can express.  You all know who you are.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Evergreen Cemetery on Saturday, November 7^th at 11:00 a.m., when Gayle will be laid to rest.  Family and friends are then invited to a casual Celebration of Gayle’s life at the Golden Acres Curling Club, 430 Catherine Street, Blenheim that will take place from 1-4 pm.  Please join us if you can.

For those wishing to remember Gayle, we ask that you consider making a memorial donation to The Erieau Fire Association. The dedicated men and women of this Association will always hold a special place for the family as Gary served as Fire Chief for many years.   The Association’s support of the Erieau Community is so appreciated.