With great sadness, we announce that Gregory Thomas Evans, who was born on October 8th, 1945, peacefully passed away on April 12th, 2026. He will always be in the hearts of his family and friends, especially his children Jason (Lina), Tiffany, Melissa (Ralph O’Callaghan), Ryan, and his grandchildren Elise, Lauren, Natasha, Cian, and Ciara who lovingly called him “Papa.”
Gregory was the son of The Honourable Gregory T. Evans and Zita Evans (both have passed). Born in Timmins, Ontario, he is fondly remembered by his siblings: The Honourable John Evans (Sue), Dr. Rory Evans, Mary Edwards (The Honourable Mark Edwards), Kerry Evans (Julie), Brendan Evans (Sharon), Cathy Rae (David), and Erin Evans (Darlene). He was predeceased by his brother Thomas (Esther). He valued the friendship of his in-laws Ross and Marjory Faulkner (both predeceased) and will be missed by Ron and Anne-Marie Faulkner, Audrey and Tom Henderson along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins from near and far.
After graduating from O’Gorman High School, Gregory earned both an undergraduate degree and a law degree at the University of Windsor. Called to the Ontario Bar in 1975, he made Orillia home with his beloved wife Colleen (who passed on April 13th, 2016). Gregory had a passion for law that spanned over a remarkable 45-year career where he advocated for various communities across Simcoe County and Muskoka. He was a partner at Clarke, Zwicker, Sparks & Evans before moving to Zwicker, Evans & Lewis then finishing with HGR Graham. Even in later years he appreciated all the professional relationships that shaped his life; he’ll be remembered for his kindness, strength generosity as well as compassion while helping clients face their challenges.
As a devoted father alongside Colleen,, Gregory fostered a family atmosphere filled with love faith respect along with community service. Many joyful gatherings took place either at home or by the lake showcasing their commitment to strong family connections that have lasted throughout their lives and will continue into the future. He often expressed it as a “very fulfilling journey with greater blessings than I ever imagined.”
Gregory was an enthusiastic participant within his community believing strongly in giving back through service. He served on the Guardian Angels Parish Council was one of the founding members of Patrick Fogarty Secondary School as well as being a part-time instructor at Georgian College. He developed a Trial Advocacy Program while coordinating CBAO law days for high school students in Simcoe County. Additionally he held memberships in Knights of Columbus along with multiple local Canadian international legal associations. After seeing firsthand how much care Hospice Simcoe provided for Colleen during her time there he became instrumental in establishing Mariposa House Hospice in Orillia while also joining its first Board of Directors. His commitment to service has left behind an enduring legacy.
A Funeral Mass honoring Gregory will take place at Guardian Angels Catholic Church located at 115 West Street N. Orillia starting at 1:30pm on Wednesday April 22nd ,2026.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Orillia Soldiers Memorial Hospital Royal Victoria Hospital Barrie Mariposa House Hospice Orillia or Hospice Simcoe Barrie all in memory of Gregory. Both he along with family are extremely grateful for all healthcare professionals who offered exceptional care expertise compassion during challenging health times over recent years including those final moments shared surrounded by loved ones.
Source link
Source link
