Sargent Gregory Swider stood down from his final watch, at the Royal Victoria hospital on July 16th 2026 at the age of 63, departed peacefully surrounded by the warmth of his family.

Gregory is now reunited with his grandson Sullivan, his parents Inez Luke and Thomas Swider. Along with brother Tommy Wayne and father-in-law Terry Hrankowski. He is Survived by His loving Wife Lana, His daughters Alysia and Kassi (Andrew) as well as his only son Cody (Maggie). His cherished Grandchildren Xane, Lorenzo and Hazel-Grace. Along with his brothers Mark, John and Dave. Mother-in-Law Barbara, Sister-in-law Amanda (Ryan) and many nieces and nephews. Lastly his faithful companion's Ruby and Gizmo.

Greg spent a total of 40 years in the Canadian armed forces serving our country with immense dedication. throughout his distinguished military career, he excelled as an airplane mechanic and transitioned into a beloved teacher, passing on his vast knowledge, skills and strong work ethic to the next generations of service members.

Greg was well known by his family and friends as grumpy, he lived life with a mischievous spark, He was a master of pranks, and 'stealth mode' jump scares, always ready with a clever joke, a cold beer and a laugh that could light up any room he was in. Weather he was catching everyone off guard with a playful trick or simply enjoying a quiet, beautiful day at the water with his fishing pole in hand or under the gazebo wood working with his radio playing in the yard. his unique personality and joyful humor will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Above all Greg lived for his children and grandchildren, there was absolutely nothing in the world that meant more to him than they did, for the past 20 years he spent teaching, loving and guiding his children into the amazing adults they are now, that he was so proud to call his own.

Greg loved to spend time with his grandchildren and loved building crafts, coloring, playing video games or watching funny movies and sometimes not so funny like mister rogers when they were acting out. Xane and Lorenzo have always looked up to their grumpy and said that he was their hero. Greg was blessed to spend nearly 3 glorious months soaking up every precious moment with his granddaughter. although he did not get a long time with his grandchildren, his presents and impact on their lives will last a lifetime. He poured his heart into making sure we all knew how much he loved and cared for us and that no matter what he would always be there, now he would just simply " be the cardinal outside the window."

Greg had a heart of gold, welcoming everyone he met with open arms, he cared deeply for those around him, always ready whenever someone needed a trusted friend, listening ear or helping hand. Overall Greg was an outstanding one in a lifetime kind of person to meet and we are all so thankful we got the chance to. May he be forever missed and endlessly loved as he looks over us with a Canadian in his hand.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 25th 2026 starting at 11 am, at Basic Funerals - Jennett Memorial Centre, at 152 Bradford Street in Barrie, where family and friends are all invited to gather, share stories and raise a glass in his memory.