An insightful friend who helped me understand his brother Peter when he was taken from me So sorry you're still not here for me you cheeky boy darling one Grief sucks and hoping Gary's family are bearing this well Will especially miss your Christmas salads with your Mum sisters and Peter and me

I will fondly remember Gary Stephen Thornton - the tall, handsome hunk from Stanley's Nite Club all those years ago. I will treasure the time we spent with you and the memories we have even though it was so sad to see you in such pain at the end. I know a child was not to come into the equation when I met you but I could not imagine my life without Jacob and I know you were proud of him all the same. I am, however, so sorry for that lost time for us three but especially for you and Jacob. All is still good and cherished. I so appreciated your help when I was selling my house down in Roxburgh and looking for property in Auckland again. Those Yum Cha's will have to wait! Fly free my dear and watch over us meantime. Miss you. Much love, hugs and many kisses. MILICA SALE (mother of son Jacob) 17th February 2024

It's an honour to have met and associated with you,Gary. You always had kind words to say and you were always hospitable and happy. Your family have always been proud of you and our memories of you will remain forever. Arohanui

Gary, Dad, I’ll cherish the memories we have together and hold them close to my heart. Though our relationship was complicated, I still wish for healing and understanding, and for peace with what we couldn't mend. I’ll carry the hope that one day we can see each other again and reconnect . Until then, I choose to acknowledge that you are still a part of my story, and that, in its own way, is something I’ll always carry with me. Thank you for being my father. For the jokes and the stories. Love you and miss you.

Our lovely Gary Such a beautiful kind caring soul, you brought so much joy into my life & the lives of other's. The laughs and banter we had over the years are truly cherished. I still find myself peering over to your place as I drive down my driveway to see if your home. Even thou I can no longer see you, you will always be in my heart. Your kindness, smile, laughter & colour stories will be remembered for ever. :)

Much loved father, grandfather and dear friend to many. You left us way to soon Dad. Words can’t express how much you are missed. I try to remember you with a smile instead of tears, so many great memories and what an intelligent man you were. You instilled good standards and values in me as a way of life and were respected by all those whose lives you touched. Your passion for collecting timpo, love of bromeliads and professionalism in real estate created life long friends and awe at your knowledge in all. Rest peacefully dad until we meet again. Much love ❤️ Your daughter Kirsti 🌹

I had known Gary for almost 10 years. I first knew him as a real estate agent, but he was much more than an agent to me. We became close friends. He always found a way to bring laughter and hope to friends; He offered me unwavering support when I needed it most; His wisdom and kindness were a guiding light in my life and in many others too. His passion for his collections was impressive, and his passion for life was inspiring. He will be deeply missed by me and many others, his spirit will be with me forever.

I only knew Gary for a couple of years, and I impressed by his character. He was a guy who obviously got what he wanted from life. There was clearly more to him than what I saw. His talent for collecting was amazing! I've never seen anything like his soldiers, bromeliads, and high end ceramics! We shared meals, whisky and laughter. He raised a strong daughter I'm pleased call a friend. We'll miss him.