A Winnipeg family once shaken by tragedy has found a way to honour the memory of their father, a man who taught them to embrace their neighbours.
Gary Boittiaux started an annual BBQ with free food, entertainment and fireworks in his north end neighbourhood.
In the early years, it was a small event attended by just a couple dozen people. But, as word spread, the party grew and grew, garnering attention in local media.
"The bigger the better," said daughter Kay Lizon. "That's kind of how my dad was. The more people that showed up, the more joy that was being spread."
Boittiaux was killed in a car crash in 1994. Now, his daughters have found a way to honour his legacy.
For the last three years, each Christmas they have organized a group of volunteers and handed out gifts to complete strangers. They call it ‘The Gary Effect’ and Monday, they handed out more than a thousand presents.
"We've had everything from tears, to laughter, to why are you doing this, to people who remembered him,” said Jess Boittiaux, “People who say I remember your dad. I remember his fireworks."
The women hope each gift will become the first in a series of kind acts.
"When we give out a present to a child or an adult, whoever, that they are going to pass that on to somebody else,” said Lizon, “If it's even just opening a door or smiling at someone and changing their day. That's what we want."
Each year the movement continues to grow, with more volunteers, more gifts, and more heart-warming smiles.
A legacy their father to make their father proud.
