The story of Gary Harbun began on the 29th May 1957.

He was the youngest of five children for Eileen and Tom, Gary grew up in a loving household with older siblings Kelvin, Janet, Preston and Ricky.

He did well at school, passed his 11+ and went to Bourneville Technical School and then on to the Polytechnic. His working life was dedicated to Birmingham City Council. He began as a carpenter – a chippy – straight out of Poly, then trained as a Surveyor and gradually, through hard work and commitment, moved through the ranks, eventually becoming a senior manager in the housing department.

In 1976 he met the love of his life, Julie, at the annual Kings Norton Mop Fair when they were both teenagers. Then on the 7th October 1978, the happy couple married at St Mary’s Church in Wythall.

In 1982 their eldest daughter, Rachelle, was born and 1984 they welcomed into the world their twin daughters , Claire and Louise.

Then in 2008 the first of the grandchildren came along, Sophie , followed by Jake in 2011, Kian in 2014 and Cai in 2023.

In 2018 the family brought home a puppy, Teddy, who loved chilling with Gary on the back of his chair. He later became like a service dog to him and was often by his side supporting him.

Gary was a loving, kind , family man. He loved to spend time with the family and any event was a chance for a celebration and get-together! He loved being a grandad and always enjoyed treating them to an ice cream. They still enjoy them today in his memory.

Gary had a genuine love for life – for everything and everyone in it – it took us all by surprise when he was diagnosed with cancer in 2013.

But for ten years, he faced every obstacle with grace, dignity and courage, his family by his side the entire time.

Gary was Our Hero and Our Mr Brave who showed strength, resilience and determination throughout his life. His courage and bravery will always be our shining light and our inspiration.

Thank you Gary for all that you were and all that you gave. Being a part of your life has been a joy, an honour, a privilege and we will always love you and you’ll always have a special place in our hearts – forever x