Gary McCracken, 75, of Sarnia, Ontario, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2026. Born in Sarnia on May 19, 1951, Gary spent his life doing what he loved: making music. He built an accomplished career that took him from the SCITS band to perform in music venues around the world.

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Professionally, Gary was best known for his years as the drummer of Canadian rock band Max Webster, joining the group in 1976 and performing on four studio albums. He was also the co-writer and lead vocaliston the band's 1979 hit, A Million Vacations. Over the years, he also performed with artists and bands including Triumph, Wrabit, Klaatu, and Tres Hombres, and released his own solo album, Audioscapes, in 2000. In 2007, he was recognized by Q107 as one of the Top 40 Classic Rock Drummers of All Time, and in 2023, Max Webster was inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame.

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For nearly 30 years, he taught music in Sarnia, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with future generations. He leaves behind a legacy, not only through records and performances, but in the countless students he inspired to pick up an instrument and discover the thrill of music. 

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Gary was an avid follower of sports and loved the outdoors. His great escape was the Kawarthas, spending many summers camping, canoeing, and fishing at Stony Lake. 

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Gary will be deeply missed by his daughter, Molly McCracken (Kevin); his twin sister, Kathy Seager (John); his nieces and nephews, Frank, Karli, Julie, Jenny, and John; and, his friends, former students in Sarnia and the music community across Canada. He was predeceased by his sister, Connie McNeil, and his parents, Doris and John McCracken. The family is immensely grateful to the incredible staff at Bluewater Health in Sarnia for making Gary’s final days cozy and calm.

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In lieu of flowers, please consider offering adonation to the Canadian Cancer Society in Gary’s memory: https://cancer.ca/en/ways-to-give/tribute-flowers