Gregory Robert Dicks

Gregory Robert Dicks

Georges River

April 20, 1959 - April 10, 2022

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we, the family, announce the peaceful passing of Greg Dicks, our much-loved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend, on Sunday, April 10, 2022, surrounded by his loving and caring family at his home in Georges River. Born in North Sydney, he was the beloved son of George and Pauline (Strickland) Dicks, North Sydney.

As a young man, he married the love of his life, Janet. They set out for the west coast, where Greg completed his plumbing trade. With their hearts always in Cape Breton, they soon returned home and settled in Georges River, and began to raise a family. Greg was hired as a plumber in the Maintenance Department, at the Northside General Hospital in North Sydney, where he worked for 30 years until his retirement in 2015. Here he would forge a number of lifelong friendships. Greg was well known as a hard worker, even as a youngster living on George Street where he worked alongside his dad learning the art of boat building. He loved a challenge and would be determined to figure out a solution to fix just about anything. He was an honorary member of the Georges River Boat Club. Greg loved boating and spending time on the lake with family and friends.

Greg could usually be found in his garage, either just tinkering or repairing and restoring anything with wheels or motors. One of his passions was restoring old vehicles. He would often end his evening by unwinding on the sofa, and watching his favorite car restoration shows.

Family and friends were paramount to Greg, whether it be time by the pool, the many days spent at the cabin, or just sitting around at any time, engaged in good conversation and having a bite or a cold one, which is what really mattered to Greg. He held a special place for his extended family, including his nieces and nephews, and he was always there to offer encouragement and advice when requested. He was loved and respected by all and will be dearly missed.

Greg is survived by his devoted wife of 41 years, Janet (MacDonald). They were an inseparable team, totally dedicated to each other in both love and life. Faced with more than their share of challenges over the years, they stood fast, drew strength from each other, and overcame, becoming stronger as individuals and as a couple. 

Greg is also survived by his loving daughter Jaclyn (Adam) Elliott, whom he absolutely adored. He never missed the opportunity to celebrate Jaclyn's milestones and accomplishments. He was immensely proud of her. Greg (Papa) will be sadly missed, yet always loved, by his grandson Drake. They were truly "Best Buds", creating so many special memories together. Greg also leaves behind his son in law Adam and step-grandson Aidan. He was so proud and happy to welcome them into the family.

Also surviving and mourning Greg's passing are his parents George and Pauline (Strickland) Dicks, North Sydney, who were dearest to his heart and always there for Greg whenever needed, as he was for them. Also left to mourn are Greg’s three siblings Cyril (Corena Boutilier), Georges River, Wendy (Lowell MacDonald) Boularderie, Kenny (Denise Mullins), Sydney. Greg was close with his siblings growing up and treasured their many memories. He was always so grateful to have kept that closeness with each of them throughout his life.

He will also be missed by Janet’s siblings Ellen (Daniel Clarke), Linda (Gilles Maillet), Debbie (George Podetz), Brenda (Joey Andrea). Greg thought the world of them all. 

Greg was predeceased by his beloved son Michael, this loss being by far his and his family’s greatest hardship and challenge.

Greg was also predeceased by his maternal grandmother, Lillian Strickland, his paternal grandparents Cyril and Phyllis Dicks, and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Jerome and Ad MacDonald, with whom he shared a special bond. 

A sincere thank you is extended to all the incredible people who provided care and assistance to Greg, whether medical or otherwise, over the past two years. There are many angels who walk among us and provide a special level of care on the final journey of life. You all know who you are and from our dearest Greg, Janet and Jaclyn, a sincere God bless and Thank You is passed on to you all. The family also wants to express a special thanks to Greg’s brother Cyril, who was by his side throughout his illness. Brothers and best friends, they were together through everything, from the beginning till the end.  No request, story, or laugh was too big or small between them.

Cremation has taken place under the care & direction of W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney.

A Mass to celebrate Greg's life will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, April 21, 2022 at St Joseph's Church, Archibald Ave., North Sydney with Father Angus MacDougall officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Local V.O.N., Palliative Care or Northside/Harbourview Hospital Foundation. Expressions of sympathy may also be made online at www.wjdooley.com.

What the Caterpillar Perceives 

as The End

To the Butterfly is Just 

The Beginning…

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