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The hands that gave so much have come to rest. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Garth Derry, surrounded by family, following a courageous battle with chronic illness.
Most people knew him as Breadman Garth, the man behind the best damn bread in town. But to us he was more than that. He was a loving husband to Pam. He was a proud Dad to Brittney (Rory), Kandas, Alexas, Megan, Chelsea (Kevin), Keegan, Bella (Cody), Cecilia (Shaq). He was a caring brother to Judi (Randy), Kathy (Dave), and Scott. He was also a devoted "gpa" to his 10 grandchildren. Garth was predeceeced by his mother Shirley and survived by his father Ross.
Garth was a chef through and through — not just by trade, but by soul. He opened his bakery, Breadman Garth, with a fire in his gut and flour on his hands. He poured himself into every loaf, every sandwich, every ridiculous, overstuffed bite that people lined up around the block for.
His slogan said it all: “The bread that raises families.” And he meant that. Because for him, food was never just about eating — it was about feeding people’s hearts. And if you were hungry, struggling, or just needed someone — Garth showed up.
He helped anyone who needed it. No questions asked. Rich or broke, clean-cut or rough around the edges, he treated everyone like a friend. And that’s what he made everywhere he went — friends. Real ones. Because Garth was the kind of man who left an impression. Loud, generous, impossible not to notice.
He raised seven daughters — yes, seven. And somehow still managed to keep his sense of humour. He loved hard, partied harder, and when Christmas came around, he turned into the best damn Santa Claus you’ve ever seen. Over-the-top, endless Amazon packages, and gifts no one asked for but everyone ended up loving. He didn’t do “simple.” He did memorable.
He loved his ten grandkids like only a gpa could with too much candy too many gifts and never enough time. And yes, one stepson too, folded into the family the way garth did everything naturally with love.
But no one had his heart like Pam. His wife. His partner. His peace. They had a quiet language, secret words at bedtime, and a promise between them that held for a lifetime — never go to bed angry. That kind of love is rare. And now, though her world has shifted without him, she will carry him with her — because that’s what they built together: something lasting, something real.
Garth didn't like the spotlight, he gave you food when you need a hand and he left behind a legacy not of money or fame but of impact in meals severed , hearts lifted and lives touched.
There will never be another Breadman Garth, the man, the myth , the baker, the legend, our dad, her love, their Gpa.
And if you're listening Garth , wherever you are we hope the oven is hot, the breads rising , music is playing loud and the drinks are cold.
We love you , we miss you and we'll keep feeding this world the way you taught us too: with full hands , open hearts and no holding back.
Catch you on the other side,
live long and prosper xoxo
(Celebration of life will be held in August date to be determined, all are welcome.)
If desired, memorial donations to the Northumberland Fare Share Food Bank - Cobourg Location would be appreciated by the family. Donations can be made through MacCoubrey Funeral Home
Deepest sympathy Pam on losing Garth I did not know Garth but by reputation he was a generous guy and a huge loss. Keep your happy memories close. Sincerely Carol
I am so sorry for your loss. Garth was a remarkable person—deeply caring, full of energy, and someone who truly loved every minute of his highly charged life. I will miss him dearly. We knew Garth and worked with him from the time he was a teenager. Even then, he stood out—diligent, intelligent, and always on a quest to learn and grow. Over the years, we watched him develop into one of the finest chefs in Northumberland County, committed to his ever-growing family. On behalf of Domenico, Gerda, Marisa and John, Jennifer, and myself, please accept our heartfelt condolences. This is an incredible loss—for your family, for the community, and for all of us who had the privilege of knowing him. I can’t help but wonder if there’s some quiet significance in the fact that he passed on the birthday of one of his closest friends, Ian Dowle. Somewhere, I imagine, they’ll argue about it—and then laugh together.
Pam, so sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathies to you and all of Garth’s family and friends.
Dear Ross Judi Kathy and all the Derry family my sincere sympathy to each of you, Cherish all the great memories you had with Garth
To the Derry family I first met Garth many years ago through his ex in laws the Larry and Pauline. I remember he was so down to earth and loved to tell and here a good joke. I loved enjoying going and purchasing his bread etc when he had the bread shop. We lost contact a few years as I moved to the US and last year I ran into him at Kellys hotel. As soon as I saw him I said hey Breadman. He took one look and said I remember you. Anyone who was lucky to know Garth knew you had a great friend. I offer my condolences
Sending deepest condolences to family & friends. I grew up on a Guernsey farm on Ontario Street where Garth grew up. It was a magical childhood with him and his sisters.
I am just shocked. I first met Garth way back in the Cafe "B" days. Back then, he was a chef at the Rendezvous Restaurant, basically right across Hwy. 45 and just up a little. We had many good times and good laughs. He will be sorely missed. His focaccia bread was one of my personal favourites. Show them how it's done, Breadman.
What sad news this is for anyone who has ever known Garth. I have known him since he was an enterprising 12 year old when he used to buy hockey cards from my Dad at Waller's Variety on the Dale Road and resell them for a profit! Fastforward many years and I met him again as Breadman Garth - absolutely wonderful bakeshop with people lined up out the door to buy his fabulous baking. Then years later on meeting up with him at Kelly's where my husband Ted and I had some wonderful talks with him and his much-loved Pam over the years. Ted and I are both very sad and send our heartfelt condolences to Pam and his beloved children. Brenda (Waller) Quinn
Unbelievable... Garth was one of the finest persons that I have known . He was interesting, kind, charismatic, personable, very talented, and one heck of a cook. I always thought that I had more time to spend with him.
sending my deepest sympathies to the family .
Dearest Pam — and the whole Garth Tribe of True Believers in love! — deepest condolences. He was, and remains to all who knew him, an ambassador of caring, good food and good will. Love back to you all!
Garth Derry - What a Legend! What a loyal Friend! I've known Garth since his Rendezvous Restaurant Days back in the 70's ... Over the years Garth was known as Cobourg's most famous Chef. In the last few years I enjoyed Garth's sense of humour over many afternoon Pub Beers. As everyone knows Garth's generosity knew no bounds. He paid for a Drilled Well to be built to water vegetable gardens to feed a very poor 180 Children's Orphanage in Central Vietnam. In Streamway Villa he befriended my handicapped older Brother John ... Garth's Heart knew no bounds in his generosity. For sure Garth has been fast tracked now into heaven. May God Bless Garth and bring comfort to Pam and his Family ... Bill Gadd - Cobourg / Vietnam
Pam, I am so sorry to hear that your Garth has passed. Sending caring thoughts to you and Keegan and to all of his beautiful daughters and grandchildren. Cherish all your wonderful memories. Rest peacefully in paradise Garth
Dear Pam, I know that you had a very special relationship with Garth and my hurts for you and the families. What a beautiful tribute to such an extraordinary, humble man. My sincerest condolences, Estelle
Dear Pam, I know that you had a very special relationship with Garth and my hurts for you and the families. I am keeping you in my heart and prayers. Estelle
Dear Pam, Judi, Kathy, Scott and Family, I am so sorry to hear of Garth’s passing. I attended school with Garth and he was always such a positive, caring, hilarious classmate. Kept everyone smiling! May your beautiful memories of/with Garth help you through the challenging days. My thoughts and prayers are with you🙏🏻
Dear Pam and family, You are in my thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time! Sincerely Katherine Johns
😞 I am so so sorry to hear of Garth's passing. My thoughts and my Prayers go out to Pam and the Family. Garth was ALWAYS there for my younger brother Ian and our family. He was one of a kind., he will be greatly missed .