WALLIS – Gary Leonard

Marion, Shari, Peter and families. My deepest sympathy to you and your families on the passing of Gary. Gary was a client of mine for a number of years and we became very good friends with may cuppas at the lovely Eagle Rock. He was a wonderful, kind man with some much knowledge. He shares many stories of his past and his geological adventures. And when he met Marion it was like his life was complete. Life is not always fair but at least they have had some happy years and adventures together. I have not seen him for a number of years as my husband is also battling cancer, but he is often in my thoughts and I will miss him. My love to you all.

Thinking of you all today, fond memories of the mischief we got up to at Easter times on the farm at Maroona. One particular memory after giving Peter a wack Gary ran out one door came back through another saying to crying Peter what’s the matter Petie. Thoughts are with you today. Love Coral Faye & Dianne.

you will be missed RIP

The Potter family remember Gary in a range of important roles in our lives, including a great scientist, mentor and friend.

Throughout his life, Gary maintained the behaviours and outlook of a true scientist: closely observing and modelling natural processes. Since his Ph.D.-standard Master’s thesis on the Granites of Wilson’s Promontory (on which Phil carried the rock samples) he has continued to publish and remained a respected expert contributing to his field. Gary was also a conservationalist with the benefit of expert knowledge of flora and fauna and geological conservation and he applied this to his family and bush regeneration activities.

Our family has enjoyed a long association with the Wallis family since the time we were neighbours with young kids. Gary was a significant figure in the lives of all members of our family and his enthusiasm for geoscience and nature and ability to engage people in these interests, contributed significantly to our choices of hobbies and careers. Gary encouraged Anna’s interest in rocks as a young child, and her decision to study geology then take up a career at Geoscience Australia.

Family hikes involving the Potter and Wallis families and others were a tradition, including the annual before-Christmas hike. This usually included a geological focus, and many side excursions to view and collect rocks. Other joint adventures included walks throughout Southeast Gippsland (with rocks), trips to Wilson’s Prom (with rocks), hiking in the Alps, Cape Liptrap Coast, Croajingalong, and the Milford Track (all with rocks).
Joint holidays with Phil and Wendy extended to a range of overseas holidays including New Zealand several times, Greece, Italy, and New Guinea.
We also remember the many great times we spent on Gary’s farm helping with planting and other projects.
It is difficult to comprehend that there will be no more joint trips or projects.

Love the Potter family (Phil, Wendy, Anna, Greg, Lauren).

Gary so very kind and generous with your time. Both Gary and Marion so hospitable and welcoming.
Glad to have meet you if only in the past few years.

Have just heard of Gary’s untimely passing today. Sincere condolences to all the Wallis family, Gary was a great neighbor and a terrific character full of life & will be sadly missed. RIP