Merle Gunby

William Merle Gunby, beloved husband of Sheila Gunby, wonderful father to children Lise, Gregory (Luba) and Dean (Penni) Gunby, died April 2, 2017 at Grey Bruce Health Services, Owen Sound, at the age of 81.   Proud of his grandchildren Emma, Robin, Eva, Erik, Luke and Owen.   Survived by siblings Joyce (Mel), Jean (Al), Linda and Stephen (Pat).   A hiker, a naturalist, a photographer, a poet, a woodworker, a farmer, an activist, Merle will be remembered for his many contributions to his community and to the preservation of nature.   If desired, donations can be made to the Owen Sound Field Naturalists or the Parkinson Society.   A tree will be planted in Merle’s honour at the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority.   Thank you to those who have shared his life.

I go and lie down where the wood drake
rests in his beauty on the water, and the great heron feeds.
I come into the peace of wild things
who do not tax their lives with forethought
of grief. I come into the presence of still water.
And I feel above me the day-blind stars
waiting with their light. For a time
I rest in the grace of the world, and am free.
– Wendell Berry

Online condolences may be made at www.greybrucecremation.com.