On Monday, June 29, 2026, our dad, Gary, was peacefully called home to Heaven after a courageous battle with illness. Born in Queens, New York, Gary lived life on his own terms—with determination, humor, loyalty, and a stubborn streak that those who loved him knew well.
When people think of dad, a few words probably come to mind: stubborn, hard-headed, loyal, supportive, and the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back. Most people also knew him as "Hot Gary"—and if you knew him, you know exactly why.
Gary was never one to back down from a challenge. Throughout his life, he faced obstacles the same way he approached everything else—with determination, and an unwavering belief that he could get through anything. Even when life tested him, he kept going.
When he became sick, that fighting spirit never left him. He faced every setback with the same strength and stubbornness that defined him for so many years. There were times when the road was difficult, but he continued to push forward, holding on longer and fighting harder than any of us could have imagined.
If you knew Gary, you knew he loved deeply, even if he didn't always show it in traditional ways. His love was found in the lessons he taught, the support he offered, the stories he shared, and his constant reminder that family came first.
If Gary were here today, I think he'd tell you he lived a great life. He did the things he wanted to do, loved the people who mattered most, and created memories that will last forever.
While our hearts are broken, there is peace in knowing he is no longer in pain. We like to imagine him finally free—running wild with the horses, reunited with Mom, playing air guitar to a Grateful Dead song, eating all the burgers he could ever want, getting all the back scratches possible, and making his way to the racetrack.
We imagine him surrounded by family and friends who have gone before him, sharing stories, laughing together, and watching over all of us.
Rest easy, Dad. Give Mom a hug for us.
We love you both, always ❤️
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