This flag was presented to us by some of Gary’s coworkers. We feel pleased and honored that they would take the time to think of us and present this flag to us that flew over the Kennedy Space Center while Gary worked there.
Thanks Guys
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Thoughts of Gary from Craig
Gary's brother Craig, his wife Kay, Eric and Kathleen
If I were to sit and write down all the memories and stories about my brother Gary it would form a tome probably rivaling Tolstoy's War and Peace in its length. Most of the stories would tell of Gary's love of things mechanical. Gary would pull a rusty old lawn mower out of some one's trash that hadn't run in years and we would be mowing our lawn with it the next day. Gary wasn't only concerned about the condition of the engine in his own vehicles but was always concerned about how every one else's car was running as many of his friends and relatives have already written down and stated.
My Mom and Dad, as well as me and my brothers and sister went through some heartbreaking times with Gary as well. But as Paul wrote in the book of Romans, "All things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to his purpose." My whole immediate family as well as some of my extended family came to Christ and it all started with Gary.
I was amazed as I sat in the pew behind my parents at Gary's wake and listened to all the people who paid their respects that we didn't even know that Gary helped in some way. "Gary fixed my roof after a hurricane", " Gary drove all the way out to my house to help me put in a water pump" etc.
One word that seems to pop into my head when I think of Gary is 'fireworks" . Letting the 4th of July go by without about 2 tons of fireworks was anathema to Gary. I still remember the crater that was left in Jacks backyard in Bensalem. About 6 foot in diameter and about a foot deep. Gary would drive all the way to South of the Border every year and bring back a trunk load. (I still think he got some of them from a military base!)
One story I would like to tell. I went to visit Gary and my parents one weekend when they lived in Delaware and I remarked how much that I liked the watch that Gary had on. He took it off and gave it to me! It was a Rolex. (Of course it was a fake) but it was the best fake Rolex watch anybody ever saw. It was perpetual and the second hand swept just like a real one. It was the best watch I ever had. One day the stem came out and I couldn't set the time anymore and I never bothered to have it fixed. I looked all over for that watch after Gary's passing because I kept it but I haven't been able to find it. I hope that it turns up somewhere. We all miss you Gary.
Your Brother Craig
SOME COMMENTS BY CRAIG
I was always proud to tell my friends and co-workers that I had a brother that worked at the Kennedy Space Center. Every time there was a launch I always marveled that my brother Gary had a hand in it. Now whenever a shuttle or a rocket is launched I will think of Gary.
Its ironic seeing Gary in front of our old red and white Dodge van. The van eventually ended up being his later on.
I remember that Pat! I remember Mom taking him next door to the Conrey's because Jane Conrey was a nurse. The Conrey's also referred to Gary as "The Towhead". If I remember correctly he ended up at Lower Bucks hospital to have his stomach pumped.
From Dad,
He drank corn remover they didn't pump his stomach because they were afraid his stomach would blow out. They admitted him for observation.
Aunt Pat's Memories
I will never forget Gary:
Gary was the funniest kid I know. I remember when he filled soda cans with acytelene lit it and blew the window boxes off the house. He was always into something. Remember the time he got into the mini bike accident with Jimmy Beck? I can still hear that chuckle he had when he told you a story. He would always end his stories with a chuckle as he was walking away. When he would see me he would always say "Hey Aunt Pat how're doing?" When I first moved to Florida my car was brand new - only about 2000 miles on it and when I was down Helen & Jack's Gary came over and the first thing he wanted to do was change the oil in my car. There are so many things I remember - some of which have already been written about. I remember that time when he ate the neighbors cakes. I also remember the time he had to be taken to the hospital because he drank corn remover!! Talking about his repairs and inventions that grill he made is awesome. He was such a sincere guy - no wonder so many people loved him. He made so many people laugh.
Gary's Aunt Pat
Gary was the funniest kid I know. I remember when he filled soda cans with acytelene lit it and blew the window boxes off the house. He was always into something. Remember the time he got into the mini bike accident with Jimmy Beck? I can still hear that chuckle he had when he told you a story. He would always end his stories with a chuckle as he was walking away. When he would see me he would always say "Hey Aunt Pat how're doing?" When I first moved to Florida my car was brand new - only about 2000 miles on it and when I was down Helen & Jack's Gary came over and the first thing he wanted to do was change the oil in my car. There are so many things I remember - some of which have already been written about. I remember that time when he ate the neighbors cakes. I also remember the time he had to be taken to the hospital because he drank corn remover!! Talking about his repairs and inventions that grill he made is awesome. He was such a sincere guy - no wonder so many people loved him. He made so many people laugh.
Gary's Aunt Pat
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Garys Life Growing Up As I Remember It, By His Dad
Gary’s Life Growing Up As I Remember It
I'll add posts to this as I remember them.
I'll add posts to this as I remember them.
Garys Dad
Gary mainly grew up in Newportville, Bucks County Pennsylvania. He was different as were all of our kids, they all had distinct personalities. Gary was always mechanically inclined, he was always taking things apart and he could usually put them back together. He always had some sort of scheme going on.
Some of the most memorable ones.
Gary mainly grew up in Newportville, Bucks County Pennsylvania. He was different as were all of our kids, they all had distinct personalities. Gary was always mechanically inclined, he was always taking things apart and he could usually put them back together. He always had some sort of scheme going on.
Some of the most memorable ones.
The Aluminum Can Scheme
He and Ronnie Wilson decided to sell aluminum cans, first they had to crush the cans [I don‘t know the logic in this], Gary set the cans on a concrete block and Ronnie dropped another block on the cans, as they got faster Gary didn’t get his hand out in time, Gary came running home with a hurt hand there didn‘t seem to be any major damage to his hand, Woodie Wilson, Ron’s father came down to our house worried about Gary.
Another time Gary came home with a unicycle that he had bought from Ronnie Wilson for a couple of dollars, Ronnie had gotten it as a gift but couldn’t ride it so he sold it to Gary who rode as soon as he got on it. Later Mr. Wilson came down to our house and apologized but he had paid over a Hundred dollars for the bike and wanted it back, so Gary returned it and got his couple of dollars back.
He and Ronnie Wilson decided to sell aluminum cans, first they had to crush the cans [I don‘t know the logic in this], Gary set the cans on a concrete block and Ronnie dropped another block on the cans, as they got faster Gary didn’t get his hand out in time, Gary came running home with a hurt hand there didn‘t seem to be any major damage to his hand, Woodie Wilson, Ron’s father came down to our house worried about Gary.
Another time Gary came home with a unicycle that he had bought from Ronnie Wilson for a couple of dollars, Ronnie had gotten it as a gift but couldn’t ride it so he sold it to Gary who rode as soon as he got on it. Later Mr. Wilson came down to our house and apologized but he had paid over a Hundred dollars for the bike and wanted it back, so Gary returned it and got his couple of dollars back.
Jimmy Beck
Another one of Gary’s friends growing up was Jimmy Beck. They always had something going on, usually it involved a lawn mower or a Minnie bike.
Jimmy and Gary were always inventing some sort of bicycle they would ride around the neighborhood, the bikes were some crazy things. If they weren’t riding around on their crazy bikes they were riding around on a riding lawnmower.
Another one of Gary’s friends growing up was Jimmy Beck. They always had something going on, usually it involved a lawn mower or a Minnie bike.
Jimmy and Gary were always inventing some sort of bicycle they would ride around the neighborhood, the bikes were some crazy things. If they weren’t riding around on their crazy bikes they were riding around on a riding lawnmower.
Billy Diamond
Another of Gary’s friends was Billy Diamond, Billy had a safe in his basementthat had never been opened, Billy and Gary spent the whole summer trying to open that safe. They tried different combinations and wrote every one they tried in a note book, Gary showed me the note book and it was practically filled with numbers they had tried. They finally got the safe open and it was empty.
The Basket Case Motorcycle
Gary bought a motorcycle from a friend it was in about five cardboard boxes, He got it together and rode it. I will admit it wasn’t very safe. Gary was before duct tape so he used wire and chewing gum to repair things.
Bobby McIlvane
Bobby McIlvane
Gary had another friend Bobby McIlvane. Bobby’s father had a shop behind his house and he tinkered with everything. Mr. McIlvane bought a boat because he wanted the motor and not the boat. Of course Gary took the boat it was a fifteen foot fiberglass boat, we lived on the creek and one day I see Mr. McIlvane and Gary bringing this boat to our house, they put the boat in the creek. Gary got an old outboard some were and got it running and started cruising up and down the creek.
One night we wanted to go out and couldn’t find Gary, the kids told me he was out in his boat I went dawn the road and heard Gary and his friends in the boat they had gotten a pair of water skis some were and were skiing in about one foot of water with rocks every were. I told him how unsafe it was, I don’t know if he did it any more.
One night we wanted to go out and couldn’t find Gary, the kids told me he was out in his boat I went dawn the road and heard Gary and his friends in the boat they had gotten a pair of water skis some were and were skiing in about one foot of water with rocks every were. I told him how unsafe it was, I don’t know if he did it any more.
Cheryl Brady
When we lived in Winder Village Gary had a friend, Cheryl Brady they were about five years old, they did everything together. One day our next door neighbor came over to our house and asked if we had seen any strangers around the neighborhood, she had had a farmer that delivered food to her house and it was missing. I don’t remember how, but Gary admitted that he and Cheryl had taken it to the field behind our house and eaten it. We punished him told him not to do that again. A couple weeks later the next door neighbor came over and said her baked goods that were delivered were missing, of course we knew who to suspect, Gary and Cheryl admitted they had taken it back to the field and eaten it. I guess farm food and baked goods were different, so they had no problem taking the baked goods.
Gary and His Motorcycle Track
When we lived in Winder Village Gary had a friend, Cheryl Brady they were about five years old, they did everything together. One day our next door neighbor came over to our house and asked if we had seen any strangers around the neighborhood, she had had a farmer that delivered food to her house and it was missing. I don’t remember how, but Gary admitted that he and Cheryl had taken it to the field behind our house and eaten it. We punished him told him not to do that again. A couple weeks later the next door neighbor came over and said her baked goods that were delivered were missing, of course we knew who to suspect, Gary and Cheryl admitted they had taken it back to the field and eaten it. I guess farm food and baked goods were different, so they had no problem taking the baked goods.
Gary and His Motorcycle Track
There was a small lot at the end of our street, and I mean small. Gary made a motorcycle track there. It was in a wooded area, he was always looking for someone to race him. He could fly around that track but no one else could.
When he moved to Delaware he was always out in the woods riding his dirt bike, one day another fellow was riding out there and he challenged Gary to a race. Gary took him on, he didn’t beat but he came close. It turns out this guy was a motorcycle racer. He told he challenged Gary as a joke because Gary’s bike was so old. He told Gary he should try racing and told him where the track was. Gary was there next Sunday, and came in second. The next Gary was determined to come in first. He was out front when he crashed, when he got up he couldn’t start his bike because his ankle was broken. That was the end of his racing career. He was on crutches for a long time. He had just bought a Mustang fastback coupe with all the goodies, it was a fast car. The only problem it was a stick shift and Gary couldn’t use the clutch or get his crutches in the car without taking them apart. He struggled with that for awhile then traded it in for a SUV.
When he moved to Delaware he was always out in the woods riding his dirt bike, one day another fellow was riding out there and he challenged Gary to a race. Gary took him on, he didn’t beat but he came close. It turns out this guy was a motorcycle racer. He told he challenged Gary as a joke because Gary’s bike was so old. He told Gary he should try racing and told him where the track was. Gary was there next Sunday, and came in second. The next Gary was determined to come in first. He was out front when he crashed, when he got up he couldn’t start his bike because his ankle was broken. That was the end of his racing career. He was on crutches for a long time. He had just bought a Mustang fastback coupe with all the goodies, it was a fast car. The only problem it was a stick shift and Gary couldn’t use the clutch or get his crutches in the car without taking them apart. He struggled with that for awhile then traded it in for a SUV.
Gary the Ice Skater
We lived on a creek in Bucks County, the creek was a rather large one that emptied into the Delaware river and was tidal. Most winters the creek froze solid and all the kids in the neighborhood skated on it, at night they would build bonfires on it. I always was worried that one of the kids would go through the ice and be swept under the ice and be trapped.
There was a bridge over the creek near the house and for some reason the ice under the bridge would not freeze as solid as the rest of the creek. I warned the kids to keep away from the ice under the bridge. Of course Gary had to see how close he could he come to the thin ice and finally he went through. I think it was Robert Hawk that managed to pull him out without any harm but being wet and cold, that was Gary always trying to get as close as he could to danger.
GARY AND THE STOLEN CAR
There was a bridge over the creek near the house and for some reason the ice under the bridge would not freeze as solid as the rest of the creek. I warned the kids to keep away from the ice under the bridge. Of course Gary had to see how close he could he come to the thin ice and finally he went through. I think it was Robert Hawk that managed to pull him out without any harm but being wet and cold, that was Gary always trying to get as close as he could to danger.
GARY AND THE STOLEN CAR
Have you ever stolen a car? Not break a window get in and hot wire a car, just find the keys of a car of someone you know, and taken a joy ride without the owners consent and put it back before they knew it was gone.
One night when Gary was about fifteen years old I received a call one night from the Bristol Township Police that Gary was at the police station and would I come to the police station. I went up to the station house and met with the police. There three girls about fourteen or fifteen crying their eyes out there with their parents who were giving it to them.
A policeman took me aside and told me that this boy who was an acquaintance of Gary’s [ he did not know him that well] had a brother who was in the army and he decided to take his brothers car out for a little ride. He met up with Gary and Billy Diamond who were hanging around the neighborhood and picked them up for a ride. I hadn’t seen Billy at the police station [more about that later]. They all went riding around Levittown and picked up the three girls. They seemed like nice girls that just made a bad decision, while they were riding around they attracted the attention of the police. The driver of the car decided to lose the police [bad decision] and in the process got in a couple of minor accidents before he was caught. The policeman told me that Gary was not in any trouble, just that I should have a talk with him about his bad decisions.
I brought Gary home we didn‘t talk much on the way home, as soon he got into the house he immediately called Billy Diamond, and I heard him say to Billy “you lucky dog when I saw you jump out of that car I tried to jump too but he speeded up and I couldn’t jump” it seems that Billy jumped out of the car in Humeville when the police were chasing them, and no one saw him so he just walked home. That was Gary’s experience with a stolen car. If that was his only one I don’t know.
More to be added
One night when Gary was about fifteen years old I received a call one night from the Bristol Township Police that Gary was at the police station and would I come to the police station. I went up to the station house and met with the police. There three girls about fourteen or fifteen crying their eyes out there with their parents who were giving it to them.
A policeman took me aside and told me that this boy who was an acquaintance of Gary’s [ he did not know him that well] had a brother who was in the army and he decided to take his brothers car out for a little ride. He met up with Gary and Billy Diamond who were hanging around the neighborhood and picked them up for a ride. I hadn’t seen Billy at the police station [more about that later]. They all went riding around Levittown and picked up the three girls. They seemed like nice girls that just made a bad decision, while they were riding around they attracted the attention of the police. The driver of the car decided to lose the police [bad decision] and in the process got in a couple of minor accidents before he was caught. The policeman told me that Gary was not in any trouble, just that I should have a talk with him about his bad decisions.
I brought Gary home we didn‘t talk much on the way home, as soon he got into the house he immediately called Billy Diamond, and I heard him say to Billy “you lucky dog when I saw you jump out of that car I tried to jump too but he speeded up and I couldn’t jump” it seems that Billy jumped out of the car in Humeville when the police were chasing them, and no one saw him so he just walked home. That was Gary’s experience with a stolen car. If that was his only one I don’t know.
More to be added
Monday, July 21, 2008
Gary And His Brothers In The Scouts
This is a picture of the boys and me in the scouts.
Left to right, Gary, Jack, Me, and Craig.
Gary was in the cub scouts, he didn't take to well to the scouts and told us he would rather not be in the scouts. I think Craig and Jack made Star and Life Rank. We had a good time in the scouts. We belonged to troop #44 in Newportville sponsored by the Newportville United Church of Christ.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
LISA'S MEMORIES OF UNCLE GARY
Before Lisa moved to Indiana she lived across the street from Gary.
Lisa is Gary's brother Jack's daughter
My memories of Uncle Gary are few-and-far-between because we moved so far away when I was so young. But he was my uncle, and the impression he made on me at such a young age makes the memories I have of him very fresh. It's really hard to believe that he's gone, that I'll never get a chance to see him again, or to introduce him to my little girl. He and Joel got along so well when they met, and I'm so sad they didn't have a chance to get better acquainted. Going to his funeral was the most horrible thing I've ever had to go to (and hopefully it's the worst thing from here on out). However, I have to remind myself that Uncle Gary is happy now, and I'm sure he wants everyone else to be happy too.
Here are a few of the memories I have of Uncle Gary.
He bought me an anatomically correct BOY doll on accident one Christmas! So he took it back and bought me my very first Barbie (to my mom's disapproval).
He dressed up as Santa and came over to our house one year (my dad has a picture somewhere, I think). I wasn't fooled, though, and gave him a big "hi, Uncle Gary!" He was pretty disappointed!
I was the flower girl in his wedding. Uncle Gary had a moustache back then. No matter how many years after he shaved it off, he just never looked right to me without it (even to this day!).
Uncle Gary gave us motorcycle rides in my backyard on Lewisville Avenue when we were little. I'll never forget watching him pop a wheelie with Stephen on the front!
He bought the best, most expensive, most illegal fireworks. He introduced me to the joy of parachutes. They'll always be my favorite fireworks. I'll never forget collecting as many as I could. I had a pink one and an orange one hanging in my closet in Pennsylvania until we moved.
He came to visit us in Indiana once. He bought fireworks and set them off in our backyard (and we lived next to an ex-police officer, no less).
We also played Wheel of Fortune while he visited. And of course, he cheated the ENTIRE time, even when I finally figured it out! I was only 10! I remember Nana telling us she had to put duct tape on her Rummikub set because Uncle Gary could see the numbers through the tiles.
He called one year to ask me what I wanted for Christmas. I told him I wanted a Barbie, not knowing that my mom had already told Aunt Sharon to get me a paint set. Guess what…Uncle Gary sent me both!
I remember visiting his house in Delaware. Uncle Gary made sure I got to watch Who Framed Roger Rabbit, even though I wasn't allowed to. I was pretty grateful for that.
I also remember riding in his black Mustang. It felt like a spaceship.
Joel and I visited during our honeymoon. Uncle Gary took us out to a few different places, but he made sure Joel got to see an alligator, which was very cool. Joel enjoyed visiting with Uncle Gary and seeing all his fun toys. We had so much fun with Joshua, too. There was definitely a special bond between Joshua and Uncle Gary
Lisa is Gary's brother Jack's daughter
My memories of Uncle Gary are few-and-far-between because we moved so far away when I was so young. But he was my uncle, and the impression he made on me at such a young age makes the memories I have of him very fresh. It's really hard to believe that he's gone, that I'll never get a chance to see him again, or to introduce him to my little girl. He and Joel got along so well when they met, and I'm so sad they didn't have a chance to get better acquainted. Going to his funeral was the most horrible thing I've ever had to go to (and hopefully it's the worst thing from here on out). However, I have to remind myself that Uncle Gary is happy now, and I'm sure he wants everyone else to be happy too.
Here are a few of the memories I have of Uncle Gary.
He bought me an anatomically correct BOY doll on accident one Christmas! So he took it back and bought me my very first Barbie (to my mom's disapproval).
He dressed up as Santa and came over to our house one year (my dad has a picture somewhere, I think). I wasn't fooled, though, and gave him a big "hi, Uncle Gary!" He was pretty disappointed!I was the flower girl in his wedding. Uncle Gary had a moustache back then. No matter how many years after he shaved it off, he just never looked right to me without it (even to this day!).
Uncle Gary gave us motorcycle rides in my backyard on Lewisville Avenue when we were little. I'll never forget watching him pop a wheelie with Stephen on the front!
He bought the best, most expensive, most illegal fireworks. He introduced me to the joy of parachutes. They'll always be my favorite fireworks. I'll never forget collecting as many as I could. I had a pink one and an orange one hanging in my closet in Pennsylvania until we moved.
He came to visit us in Indiana once. He bought fireworks and set them off in our backyard (and we lived next to an ex-police officer, no less).
We also played Wheel of Fortune while he visited. And of course, he cheated the ENTIRE time, even when I finally figured it out! I was only 10! I remember Nana telling us she had to put duct tape on her Rummikub set because Uncle Gary could see the numbers through the tiles.
He called one year to ask me what I wanted for Christmas. I told him I wanted a Barbie, not knowing that my mom had already told Aunt Sharon to get me a paint set. Guess what…Uncle Gary sent me both!
I remember visiting his house in Delaware. Uncle Gary made sure I got to watch Who Framed Roger Rabbit, even though I wasn't allowed to. I was pretty grateful for that.
I also remember riding in his black Mustang. It felt like a spaceship.
Joel and I visited during our honeymoon. Uncle Gary took us out to a few different places, but he made sure Joel got to see an alligator, which was very cool. Joel enjoyed visiting with Uncle Gary and seeing all his fun toys. We had so much fun with Joshua, too. There was definitely a special bond between Joshua and Uncle Gary
Friday, July 18, 2008
Thoughts fron Gary's Nephew Jason
This is a post that I have been pondering for a few weeks and I believe now I can put my thoughts into the appropriate words.Some may wonder what has been the biggest challenge or adjustment we have had to make since moving to a foreign field. It hasn’t been the culture, because you learn to adapt yourself, it isn’t the language because there is light at the end of that long tunnel, it isn’t even missing the foods and things from the “homeland” because there will always be another visit, and it’s not even missing out on family get-togethers because again there is furlough. The toughest aspect of moving away is being thousands of miles away when family faces hardship and tragedy.Several months ago Jenny faced a sad time in her family with the illness and subsequent death of her aunt, but we thank the Lord the she was able to make a flight home for the funeral. Several weeks ago my family faced a horrific tragedy that shook us all to the core. My Uncle Gary was killed suddenly and tragically. Not only is Uncle Gary my dad’s younger brother, but his wife, my Aunt Sharon, is my mom’s younger sister. So this event affected everyone to whom I am related. If there was ever a time I wished I wasn’t in Chile it was when my grandfather called me with the bad news. It was a difficult time because we are too far to comfort or be comforted. I wanted to hug my family or even be hugged by them, but distance prevented it. Death in family is one of those “pre-field” conversations that Jenny and I had before leaving. Discussing it and facing it are two different worlds. Although there is sadness for having to feel like a distant spectator while family mourned I do not regret for being in the place where God has called us.
Uncle Gary with my grandparents
Uncle Gary was the kind of crazy uncle that gives kids the fun childhood memories they will share years later. He was full of spontaneity and never seemed bothered with the small stuff. From canoe rides, go-carts, speed boats, jet skis, four wheelers, motorcycles, Uncle Gary & Aunt Sharon always had new toys that made visiting them a new adventure. One time Uncle Gary even rigged up Josh’s power wheels to go extra fast by crossing something, or rigging something with a powered wheel chair motor he found in the trash.When I was a kid he gave me a cap gun that didn’t work. His quick solution was to give me a hammer and send me out on the apartment balcony to bust the caps. Who knows what the neighbors thought. Uncle Gary was the one you can depend on to bring enough fireworks to 4th of July picnics to take out a battle ship. You should’ve seen how high a metal trashcan lid can fly with enough fireworks underneath it! One time Uncle Gary took us on a shark fishing expedition which was something never to be forgotten. I think I was 13. We had everything ready for shark fishing, big ice blocks of fish guts hanging off the back of the boat, the biggest hooks with fish for bait that were bigger than any fish I had ever caught up to that point. We didn’t get any shark that day; my brother Stephen caught some seasickness. How many people even get to even attempt shark fishing? The night before my wedding my car broke down. Uncle Gary checked it out and said; “You’re not planning on taking this on your honey moon are you?” “Uh, yea,” I responded. He laughed, and got the car running. Anyway, his laugh prompted me to borrow a car for the honeymoon. During one of our visits to Florida he took me and Jenny out on his little four person seadoo boat. He proudly announced, “You can’t flip this thing over if you tried”. Somehow that statement became a challenge as he did everything possible to prove that boat couldn’t be flipped. Jenny and I were slung all over the place. One night while sitting in his living room during a visit to Florida he said to Jenny and me; “You guys want to go fishing?” We didn’t know that meant right then. Within minutes Aunt Sharon agreed to watch the kids and we were on our way. He took us inside Kennedy Space Center where he worked to fish off one of their private beaches. Like the shark fishing expedition I came up empty although Jenny reeled in a catch.Every visit to Florida was guaranteed my vehicle would be checked out and my kids were going to be hauled off to the dollar store or taken to the pool. Uncle Gary was a great guy; he could fix anything, and was never too busy to take the time to help someone out.My grandfather started a blog in Uncle Gary’s memory and I invite you to take a visit.
Whenever tragedy takes place we have faith that God will somehow and someway be glorified in or through it.
Tomorrow I will share more...
A Bit Of Comfort In Grief
Whenever tragedy takes place we have faith that God will somehow and someway be glorified in or through it...My Aunt Sharon arranged that donations be sent to our family and the work here in Chile in lieu of flowers. To date we have received $600 for the ministry here. Much of it coming from people I do not even know. Starting next Wednesday is the third annual Youth Congress that the church here in Chile will be hosting. Several churches around Santiago will be bringing their young people to the conference. Every donation that we receive will go toward the expenses of this conference. It is our prayer that through the conference young people will give their hearts to Christ, be challenged to live for Christ, and be helped. The other night we heard of a church coming a good distance with 15 teenagers, so there will be a need for additional funds. Though our family has been hit with an enormous tragedy it is our prayer that through these donations an eternal difference will be made.Thank you to those who gave and thank you for your sympathies and comfort toward my family during our time of grief.
Uncle Gary with my grandparents
Uncle Gary was the kind of crazy uncle that gives kids the fun childhood memories they will share years later. He was full of spontaneity and never seemed bothered with the small stuff. From canoe rides, go-carts, speed boats, jet skis, four wheelers, motorcycles, Uncle Gary & Aunt Sharon always had new toys that made visiting them a new adventure. One time Uncle Gary even rigged up Josh’s power wheels to go extra fast by crossing something, or rigging something with a powered wheel chair motor he found in the trash.When I was a kid he gave me a cap gun that didn’t work. His quick solution was to give me a hammer and send me out on the apartment balcony to bust the caps. Who knows what the neighbors thought. Uncle Gary was the one you can depend on to bring enough fireworks to 4th of July picnics to take out a battle ship. You should’ve seen how high a metal trashcan lid can fly with enough fireworks underneath it! One time Uncle Gary took us on a shark fishing expedition which was something never to be forgotten. I think I was 13. We had everything ready for shark fishing, big ice blocks of fish guts hanging off the back of the boat, the biggest hooks with fish for bait that were bigger than any fish I had ever caught up to that point. We didn’t get any shark that day; my brother Stephen caught some seasickness. How many people even get to even attempt shark fishing? The night before my wedding my car broke down. Uncle Gary checked it out and said; “You’re not planning on taking this on your honey moon are you?” “Uh, yea,” I responded. He laughed, and got the car running. Anyway, his laugh prompted me to borrow a car for the honeymoon. During one of our visits to Florida he took me and Jenny out on his little four person seadoo boat. He proudly announced, “You can’t flip this thing over if you tried”. Somehow that statement became a challenge as he did everything possible to prove that boat couldn’t be flipped. Jenny and I were slung all over the place. One night while sitting in his living room during a visit to Florida he said to Jenny and me; “You guys want to go fishing?” We didn’t know that meant right then. Within minutes Aunt Sharon agreed to watch the kids and we were on our way. He took us inside Kennedy Space Center where he worked to fish off one of their private beaches. Like the shark fishing expedition I came up empty although Jenny reeled in a catch.Every visit to Florida was guaranteed my vehicle would be checked out and my kids were going to be hauled off to the dollar store or taken to the pool. Uncle Gary was a great guy; he could fix anything, and was never too busy to take the time to help someone out.My grandfather started a blog in Uncle Gary’s memory and I invite you to take a visit.
Whenever tragedy takes place we have faith that God will somehow and someway be glorified in or through it.
Tomorrow I will share more...
A Bit Of Comfort In Grief
Whenever tragedy takes place we have faith that God will somehow and someway be glorified in or through it...My Aunt Sharon arranged that donations be sent to our family and the work here in Chile in lieu of flowers. To date we have received $600 for the ministry here. Much of it coming from people I do not even know. Starting next Wednesday is the third annual Youth Congress that the church here in Chile will be hosting. Several churches around Santiago will be bringing their young people to the conference. Every donation that we receive will go toward the expenses of this conference. It is our prayer that through the conference young people will give their hearts to Christ, be challenged to live for Christ, and be helped. The other night we heard of a church coming a good distance with 15 teenagers, so there will be a need for additional funds. Though our family has been hit with an enormous tragedy it is our prayer that through these donations an eternal difference will be made.Thank you to those who gave and thank you for your sympathies and comfort toward my family during our time of grief.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Ron & Denise
Ron and his family at Fundamental Baptist Church of Battle Creek where he is the Pastor
A Memory From Gary's Brother Ron
Gary Brian Kenney
January 22, 1958 - June 16, 2008
On June 16th my 50 year old brother Gary’s died both suddenly and very tragically. This heartbreaking event hit my family like no other in our lives. When I first heard the news my mind was telling me that it was not true even as the words were coming out of my father’s mouth over the telephone.
Denise and I spent one week in Florida to attend the funeral and be with my parents. Many other family members and friends converged on the area to attend the funeral and to be an encouragement to each other. My brothers, Craig, John, and I spoke at the funeral. My parent’s pastor, Dr. Mark Rhodes was truly a comfort and very clearly and powerfully presented the gospel.
Gary is survived by Sharon, his wife of over 20 years, and their three children, Darryl (22), Amanda (17) and Joshua (10). Also surviving are his parents, John and Helen and the aforementioned brothers and our sister Denise DiFilippo. Once my parents moved to Florida after retirement, it wasn’t too long before Gary and Sharon moved down there too. Gary moved into a home only five minutes from Mom and Dad’s home. Gary was an ever present help to my parents around their home and, of course, with their vehicles. Gary was employed at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida. Initially he worked as a heavy equipment mechanic on the huge crawler that transports the shuttle to the launch pad.
Gary loved his family. He had recently took up running. He was running 6 miles per day. On several of the days his ten year old son, Joshua, would join him for the six mile trip to Sharon’s job and then the three of them would drive home together in their truck. Gary has always had an interest and a natural ability for things mechanical. I can remember kids in the neighborhood bringing their mini-bikes to him to fix. He has had a mini-bike or a motorcycle since he was about 10 years old. He has had boats, quads, jet-skis, cars and trucks. One of Gary’s neighbors made the following comment at the funeral reception, ”If you wanted Gary to stop over all you had to do was raise the hood on your car! Gary would either tell you how to fix it our push you out of the way and do it himself!”
For me, Gary was my roommate for much of my childhood. Like most brothers sharing a room, we had our fights, and since Gary was four years older than me, I usuall lost. But we also had a lot of fun. I can remember goofing off until we heard Dad’s footsteps creaking down the stairs. We spent many nights up later than we were supposed to watching reruns of Hogan’s Heros and Dick Vandyke on our smal black and white TV. Gary tried his best to teach me to ride a dirt bike. On one occasision he was trying to teach me to do a “hole shot.” I panicked, pulled back on the throttle and hit a pole in the back yard and was promptly sent over the handle bars. If we road together, I usually spent most of the time trying to catch up to Gary. He was the one that always had to go faster, jump higher and just push the bike to the limit.
My brother Craig pointed out something very important when he spoke at the funeral. It was around this time that both my parents came the Christ. This struggle brought my parents even closer to the Lord and during this time they were praying for all of their children. Praise the Lord, one by one they all came to Christ. As I look at this event that we are dealing with now and will continue to deal with in the days ahead, I wonder if any good can come from it. In the immediate view, the gospel was preached at my brother’s funeral. My family, including uncles and cousins, has been brought closer together.
I rest in the assurance that we serve a God that sees around the corners ahead and sees through all of the shadows.
Psalm 107:14-15
He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and brake their bands in sunder. Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
William Cowper, authored many poems and hymns including the well know There is a Fountain Filled with Blood. I have found encouragement in the one below titled,
God Moves in a Mysterious Way.
God moves in a mysterious way His wonders to perform;
He plants His footsteps in the sea And rides upon the storm.
Deep in unfathomable mines Of never failing skill
He treasures up His bright designs And works His sovereign will.
Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take;
The clouds ye so much dread
Are big with mercy and shall break In blessings on your head.
Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, But trust Him for His grace;
Behind a frowning providence He hides a smiling face.
His purposes will ripen fast, Unfolding every hour;
The bud may have a bitter taste, But sweet will be the flower.
Blind unbelief is sure to err And scan His work in vain;
God is His own interpreter, And He will make it plain.
Thank you too all of those that have written, called and especially prayed for my family during this time.
Ron and Denise Kenney
January 22, 1958 - June 16, 2008
On June 16th my 50 year old brother Gary’s died both suddenly and very tragically. This heartbreaking event hit my family like no other in our lives. When I first heard the news my mind was telling me that it was not true even as the words were coming out of my father’s mouth over the telephone.
Denise and I spent one week in Florida to attend the funeral and be with my parents. Many other family members and friends converged on the area to attend the funeral and to be an encouragement to each other. My brothers, Craig, John, and I spoke at the funeral. My parent’s pastor, Dr. Mark Rhodes was truly a comfort and very clearly and powerfully presented the gospel.
Gary is survived by Sharon, his wife of over 20 years, and their three children, Darryl (22), Amanda (17) and Joshua (10). Also surviving are his parents, John and Helen and the aforementioned brothers and our sister Denise DiFilippo. Once my parents moved to Florida after retirement, it wasn’t too long before Gary and Sharon moved down there too. Gary moved into a home only five minutes from Mom and Dad’s home. Gary was an ever present help to my parents around their home and, of course, with their vehicles. Gary was employed at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida. Initially he worked as a heavy equipment mechanic on the huge crawler that transports the shuttle to the launch pad.
Gary loved his family. He had recently took up running. He was running 6 miles per day. On several of the days his ten year old son, Joshua, would join him for the six mile trip to Sharon’s job and then the three of them would drive home together in their truck. Gary has always had an interest and a natural ability for things mechanical. I can remember kids in the neighborhood bringing their mini-bikes to him to fix. He has had a mini-bike or a motorcycle since he was about 10 years old. He has had boats, quads, jet-skis, cars and trucks. One of Gary’s neighbors made the following comment at the funeral reception, ”If you wanted Gary to stop over all you had to do was raise the hood on your car! Gary would either tell you how to fix it our push you out of the way and do it himself!”
For me, Gary was my roommate for much of my childhood. Like most brothers sharing a room, we had our fights, and since Gary was four years older than me, I usuall lost. But we also had a lot of fun. I can remember goofing off until we heard Dad’s footsteps creaking down the stairs. We spent many nights up later than we were supposed to watching reruns of Hogan’s Heros and Dick Vandyke on our smal black and white TV. Gary tried his best to teach me to ride a dirt bike. On one occasision he was trying to teach me to do a “hole shot.” I panicked, pulled back on the throttle and hit a pole in the back yard and was promptly sent over the handle bars. If we road together, I usually spent most of the time trying to catch up to Gary. He was the one that always had to go faster, jump higher and just push the bike to the limit.
My brother Craig pointed out something very important when he spoke at the funeral. It was around this time that both my parents came the Christ. This struggle brought my parents even closer to the Lord and during this time they were praying for all of their children. Praise the Lord, one by one they all came to Christ. As I look at this event that we are dealing with now and will continue to deal with in the days ahead, I wonder if any good can come from it. In the immediate view, the gospel was preached at my brother’s funeral. My family, including uncles and cousins, has been brought closer together.
I rest in the assurance that we serve a God that sees around the corners ahead and sees through all of the shadows.
Psalm 107:14-15
He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and brake their bands in sunder. Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
William Cowper, authored many poems and hymns including the well know There is a Fountain Filled with Blood. I have found encouragement in the one below titled,
God Moves in a Mysterious Way.
God moves in a mysterious way His wonders to perform;
He plants His footsteps in the sea And rides upon the storm.
Deep in unfathomable mines Of never failing skill
He treasures up His bright designs And works His sovereign will.
Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take;
The clouds ye so much dread
Are big with mercy and shall break In blessings on your head.
Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, But trust Him for His grace;
Behind a frowning providence He hides a smiling face.
His purposes will ripen fast, Unfolding every hour;
The bud may have a bitter taste, But sweet will be the flower.
Blind unbelief is sure to err And scan His work in vain;
God is His own interpreter, And He will make it plain.
Thank you too all of those that have written, called and especially prayed for my family during this time.
Ron and Denise Kenney
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
A Poem To Cousin Gary from Cindy
On January 22, 1958
Gary Brian Kenney is born
On June 16, 2008
An entire family now mourns.
Like a busy little bee
Gary was always a buzzin'
Fixin', ridin', workin', playin'
I am sad, I miss you, dear cousin.
Visits to Gary's were never boring;
Actually quite the adventure,
My kids loved your toys and especially,
Your stories about your work at the Space Center.
There are so many things
I wish we could have done
Like the bike week ride with Kevin
Would have been #1.
I am so sorry I didn't come see you
When I was down in June,
But I never thought for a moment
That you would be taken from us so soon.
As you now walk on Heaven's shore,
Hand in hand with Jesus;
It's still so hard to comprehend
That you are no longer with us.
Your decision to accept Christ
So many years ago,
Gives me great peace because
I'll see you again, I know.
I love you! From, Cindy
Gary Brian Kenney is born
On June 16, 2008
An entire family now mourns.
Like a busy little bee
Gary was always a buzzin'
Fixin', ridin', workin', playin'
I am sad, I miss you, dear cousin.
Visits to Gary's were never boring;
Actually quite the adventure,
My kids loved your toys and especially,
Your stories about your work at the Space Center.
There are so many things
I wish we could have done
Like the bike week ride with Kevin
Would have been #1.
I am so sorry I didn't come see you
When I was down in June,
But I never thought for a moment
That you would be taken from us so soon.
As you now walk on Heaven's shore,
Hand in hand with Jesus;
It's still so hard to comprehend
That you are no longer with us.
Your decision to accept Christ
So many years ago,
Gives me great peace because
I'll see you again, I know.
I love you! From, Cindy
Garys Job At Kennedy Space Center
Gary was so proud to be working at the space center, he always joked to people that he was training to be an astronaut. When he started there he was working on the crawler, he ended up being a welder. He came to my house almost every day on the way home and told me all about the crawler, or what he was working on as a welder. He said "I never knew jobs like this existed". He gave me this shirt.
A Memory of Gary by His Brother Jack
Gary's brother Jack, Purivi and KricketA memory of Gary By His brother Jack;I remember one time we visited Gary in Delaware. Whenever you visited he wanted to do something that you wouldn't forget.
He told me he wanted to take me into Dover Air force base and see a C-5 (I think thats right, it's the really big one). I didn't think he could do it but sure enough there we were at the gate and walked in with a friend of his like we owned the place. I couldn't believe it. We went all over that plane without an escorted. Of course this was pre-911. He took me on top of the wings and I paced off the wing span. From the line where you couldn't walk on the left wing to the line you couldn't walk on the right wing was 73 steps. It's something I'll never forget. Thanks brotherPictures of Gary As I Find them
Another picture of Gary's Sportster.
Gary bought me this Moped at a yard sale in Delaware for $20.00 and got it running, I rode all around the back roads near his house. 
Gary showing Mom his new boat
Gary's Graduation from Delhas High School
Gary in our living room in Florida 
This is one of Helens favorite pictures of our kid's, it was taken Easter 196? Gary is on the second row left. My brother in law Dick Matlack always called Gary "pecks bad boy" you can see the devilment in his eyes.
Gary and his mom in his living room in Delaware, Christmas 1994
Gary and his Brothers and sister at Jason's Wedding in Georgia
Left to right, Ron,Denise,Gary,Jack, and Craig
This is one of Helens favorite pictures of our kid's, it was taken Easter 196? Gary is on the second row left. My brother in law Dick Matlack always called Gary "pecks bad boy" you can see the devilment in his eyes.
Gary and his mom in his living room in Delaware, Christmas 1994
Gary and his Brothers and sister at Jason's Wedding in GeorgiaLeft to right, Ron,Denise,Gary,Jack, and Craig
The Jet boat Gary bought in Florida, he was told that you couldn't turn it over, he tried but as best I know he never did, but he tried as anyone who went out with him could tell you.He took Jack and I out fishing in the port, the waves were about 4ft and he wanted to go out into the ocean,for once he listened to me and we didn't go out.
More crabs caught at Toms Cove Virginia.
Gary with a giant crab he caught at Toms Cove, Virginia
Gary with his brothers and brother in law Ray at Ron's Wedding, with his mustache.
Gary's custom Harley 1200cc Sportster
Gary and Denise on his Harley
Gary at Myrtle Beach 1959
Gary the chess master
More crabs caught at Toms Cove Virginia. Gary with a giant crab he caught at Toms Cove, Virginia
Gary with his brothers and brother in law Ray at Ron's Wedding, with his mustache.Gary's custom Harley 1200cc Sportster
Gary and Denise on his Harley
Gary at Myrtle Beach 1959
Gary the chess masterTuesday, July 15, 2008
AT THE MEMORIAL SERVICE
THANKS EVERONE
We want to sincerely thank everyone for the sacrifices they made to be with us during our time of grief. All of our family who interrupted their lives to support us in our grief, and are still supporting us with their care and calls.
Thanks to all our friends here at Island Lakes and our church families that came to our aid and had the memorial service here at the clubhouse.
I know that Gary’s brothers and sister and her husband Ray had to sacrifice and drop everything to come to Florida at a moments notice.
Also Helens brother, Al Harper and his family thanks for coming down to be with us and comfort us. Helens sister Pat and her daughter Cindy thanks.
Gary’s best friend Mike who came from Delaware to be with us, we enjoyed his fellowship and memories of Gary.
We received so many cards of sympathy, Gary’s nephew Jason who received a lot of support for his work in Chile thanks all of you, Jason has been sending a letter of thanks to all of the people that he has an address for, I hope there hasn’t been anyone missed.
We want to sincerely thank everyone for the sacrifices they made to be with us during our time of grief. All of our family who interrupted their lives to support us in our grief, and are still supporting us with their care and calls.
Thanks to all our friends here at Island Lakes and our church families that came to our aid and had the memorial service here at the clubhouse.
I know that Gary’s brothers and sister and her husband Ray had to sacrifice and drop everything to come to Florida at a moments notice.
Also Helens brother, Al Harper and his family thanks for coming down to be with us and comfort us. Helens sister Pat and her daughter Cindy thanks.
Gary’s best friend Mike who came from Delaware to be with us, we enjoyed his fellowship and memories of Gary.
We received so many cards of sympathy, Gary’s nephew Jason who received a lot of support for his work in Chile thanks all of you, Jason has been sending a letter of thanks to all of the people that he has an address for, I hope there hasn’t been anyone missed.
Below are some pictures taken at the memorial service.
GARY YOU ARE MISSED
Gary was more than a son to me, he was a great friend, always ready to help me with anything that was wrong around the house. My car hasn't been to a mechanic for twenty years, Gary always took care of anything that was wrong with it, I hesitated to tell him about noises I heard in my car because he would insist on looking at it right then.
His mother and I will miss more than words can tell.
This tragedy that happened is still like a bad dream, but we will not wake up from it. Gary has had it bad this last year, but he's at peace now.
No one’s life truly ends with his death.
The lives of the deceased are completed in the imaginations and spirits of those who love them.
GARYS SALVATION
About thirty years ago Helen and I accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior. Our children followed in salvation us one by one, we think Gary was the first one to get saved after us.
Gary always had a problem with how people perceived him, when he went to church if someone made a comment he didn’t like he would stop going for a while. As a result he didn’t go to church regularly. When he moved to Delaware he started to go to church more often, he started going to the First Baptist Church of Fredericka, he really liked Pastor Ingram and Don La Duc whom he was good friends with.
One Sunday morning he came to church in shorts [he saw nothing wrong with this] and a woman in the church commented “ we come to church in shorts now?” that was the last time Gary came to church regularly.
I asked him about his salvation and he told me he was sure he was saved, I told him that he doesn’t show it, he assured me he was saved. I tried to talk him out of his salvation but couldn’t. If good works could get us to heaven [we know they can't] Gary would go, he was always helping someone, but if he thought you were taking advantage of him he was done with you.
I feel that Gary was saved even he didn’t have the marks we look for in a saved person, only the LORD knows for sure who is saved and who is not.
No one expects to pass away at a young age, but it happens. You must prepare for this eventuality, take the time to open a bible and look up these verses.
1- John 3:7 - Ye must be born again, read from verse 3:1 to 3:21
2- Romans 3:23 - All have sinned and come short of the glory of God
3- Romans 6:23 - For the wages of sin is death: but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord
4- John 1:12 - But as many received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them who believe on his name
5- Revelation 3:20 - Behold I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me
If you want any more help with this, E-Mail me with your questions at jkenneyjr@yahoo.com
His mother and I will miss more than words can tell.
This tragedy that happened is still like a bad dream, but we will not wake up from it. Gary has had it bad this last year, but he's at peace now.
No one’s life truly ends with his death.
The lives of the deceased are completed in the imaginations and spirits of those who love them.
GARYS SALVATION
About thirty years ago Helen and I accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior. Our children followed in salvation us one by one, we think Gary was the first one to get saved after us.
Gary always had a problem with how people perceived him, when he went to church if someone made a comment he didn’t like he would stop going for a while. As a result he didn’t go to church regularly. When he moved to Delaware he started to go to church more often, he started going to the First Baptist Church of Fredericka, he really liked Pastor Ingram and Don La Duc whom he was good friends with.
One Sunday morning he came to church in shorts [he saw nothing wrong with this] and a woman in the church commented “ we come to church in shorts now?” that was the last time Gary came to church regularly.
I asked him about his salvation and he told me he was sure he was saved, I told him that he doesn’t show it, he assured me he was saved. I tried to talk him out of his salvation but couldn’t. If good works could get us to heaven [we know they can't] Gary would go, he was always helping someone, but if he thought you were taking advantage of him he was done with you.
I feel that Gary was saved even he didn’t have the marks we look for in a saved person, only the LORD knows for sure who is saved and who is not.
No one expects to pass away at a young age, but it happens. You must prepare for this eventuality, take the time to open a bible and look up these verses.
1- John 3:7 - Ye must be born again, read from verse 3:1 to 3:21
2- Romans 3:23 - All have sinned and come short of the glory of God
3- Romans 6:23 - For the wages of sin is death: but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord
4- John 1:12 - But as many received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them who believe on his name
5- Revelation 3:20 - Behold I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me
If you want any more help with this, E-Mail me with your questions at jkenneyjr@yahoo.com
Gary We Appreciated You
When you have a bunch of kids you never know if you are raising them right, or how they feel about you.
Gary always thought very highly of me, Helen always told me how much Gary loved me. Gary and I went through a lot together. I remember one father’s day Gary gave me a shirt that had on the front “# 1 DAD” I wore it occasionally and didn’t think much about it till one day at work a woman I didn’t know looked at the shirt and asked if I was # 1 dad?, I said “I don’t think so” but I guess my son thinks so. That got me thinking about how I thought about my Dad and how my kids thought about me.
We are born self centered and selfish, we don’t appreciate our parents till we grow up. Some people take longer than others to grow up. Just as I would like to have my Mom and Dad here to tell them how much I appreciate them and love them, I would like to have Gary back to tell him much I appreciated and loved him for all the things he did for us. I know that isn’t possible so I’ll just keep on adding to this blog as I think of things about Gary.
We had five children all of them were different, we would miss any one of them as much as we do Gary. All of our children have been good to us, but Gary living so close to us meant that we spent a lot of time with him. It’s the way Gary died that is so hard to take, it was so unnecessary. If he had died in a car accident or a work related accident it would easier to get over his death. Gary had several serious accidents any one of them could easily have caused his death. But this incident was so preventable.
We never expected to lose Gary at this young age, every one expects their children to outlive them, but it doesn’t always happen that way, since this has happened so many people have told me of tragedies that happened in their families, so take care to appreciate your loved ones while you still have them. This tragedy isn’t over yet there’s more to come, it may take a few years, keep watching.
When you have a bunch of kids you never know if you are raising them right, or how they feel about you.
Gary always thought very highly of me, Helen always told me how much Gary loved me. Gary and I went through a lot together. I remember one father’s day Gary gave me a shirt that had on the front “# 1 DAD” I wore it occasionally and didn’t think much about it till one day at work a woman I didn’t know looked at the shirt and asked if I was # 1 dad?, I said “I don’t think so” but I guess my son thinks so. That got me thinking about how I thought about my Dad and how my kids thought about me.
We are born self centered and selfish, we don’t appreciate our parents till we grow up. Some people take longer than others to grow up. Just as I would like to have my Mom and Dad here to tell them how much I appreciate them and love them, I would like to have Gary back to tell him much I appreciated and loved him for all the things he did for us. I know that isn’t possible so I’ll just keep on adding to this blog as I think of things about Gary.
We had five children all of them were different, we would miss any one of them as much as we do Gary. All of our children have been good to us, but Gary living so close to us meant that we spent a lot of time with him. It’s the way Gary died that is so hard to take, it was so unnecessary. If he had died in a car accident or a work related accident it would easier to get over his death. Gary had several serious accidents any one of them could easily have caused his death. But this incident was so preventable.
We never expected to lose Gary at this young age, every one expects their children to outlive them, but it doesn’t always happen that way, since this has happened so many people have told me of tragedies that happened in their families, so take care to appreciate your loved ones while you still have them. This tragedy isn’t over yet there’s more to come, it may take a few years, keep watching.
GARY AND HIS MOTORCYCLES
Gary always had a motorcycle, just recently he had three motorcycles and two ATV'S at the same time. He had a couple of off road cycles and loved to go out in the woods and ride all day. He took the Yamaha to Georgia and rode Deals Gap where he dumped it. He told me it was a winding mountain road that you tried to go up or down as fast as you could.
Garys First motorcycle, the first decent one.
Gary bought this motorcycle when he lived in Delaware, it is a 1200cc Sportster customized.This was the last Rice Burner, Wrist Rocket Motorcycle Gary had, he loved this motorcycle and spent hours riding it, polishing it and taking care of it.
Gary liked this motorcycle that he bought from Kevin, his cousin Cindys husband, he rode it to work every day, weather permitting. It was a very 
dependable ride .
dependable ride .
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