Gary loved fast cars and women. He was stubborn, hard-headed, high-strung, and particular—it was his way or the highway. He thoroughly enjoyed drinking on the beach and being outdoors in his "hoochie daddy shorts." Gary had a unique sense of humor, and his favorite jokes were always about our mother. His true pride and joy was his '55 Chevy. He was famously the darkest white person anyone knew. Everyone he met became one of his kids or grandkids. Gary loved classic TV and watching local wildlife, including the birds, bunnies, squirrels, deer, and even the neighborhood skunk. The local wildlife will deeply miss him. The family officially deemed his spirit guide to be a gnome, and we affectionately called him "Grampage." Our dad was always right, even when he was wrong (which, of course, he never was). Dammit Dad, you were wrong this time.

Dear Dad,

"Who is going to ground me when I don't behave? I need you to be my moral compass. I love you!" – Autumn

"I heard what you said, I still hear all that you said, I'll never forget." – Johnny

"I need you to be the adult. I love you!" – Amber

"You will always be needed and always missed." – Elias

"Thank you for everything. Say hi to my mom and dad." – Tricia

Gary is survived by his three children: Autumn, Johnny, and Amber; five grandchildren: Winter, August, Guyden, Lodin, and Kaige; and one great-grandchild: Maddie. He leaves behind his beloved extended family, including Elias, Kylia, Chelsie, Michael, and Hudson; his sister, Laurie; his nephew, Bret; and many other nieces and nephews. Honorable mention goes to his two ex-wives. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Joyce.