Gary was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Diane Roush, daughters Julie (Gabe) Kuhnert, Gretna Nebraska, and Lori (Brian) Spurlock, brother Jeff (LouAnn), Jackson Wyoming, grandsons Isaiah, Tyler, Zack, Jonathan, and Bradley, and his unofficially adopted family, son Jason (Michelle) Silvas, and grandsons Coleman and Aidan.
Gary was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, having served as a seaman on the USS Jennings County during the Vietnam War. After the war, he was employed as a Construction Inspector II for the city of Bakersfield for 30 years. He also served as a draftsman for a number of years.
In his teen years, Gary loved to dance. He took tap, ballet and jazz classes, and performed in a number of plays with the Starlight of Kern at the BC outdoor theater including Annie Get Your Gun, Oklahoma, and Lil’ Abner. He also was a boy scout for many years. God blessed Gary with daughters so he became the first male Girl Scout leader in Bakersfield for 7 years.
He belonged to the Dragon Wagon RV Club for 8 years. Many trailers, motorhomes, and 5th wheels’ later, he joined the Roaming Rigs RV Club. Gary loved to travel.
Gary has been a member of the First United Methodist Church since he was a young boy. He served as a trustee, an usher, was a member of the handbell choir, and he and his wife helped run the Senior Center every Wednesday.
In his spare time, he enjoyed playing golf, working with wood, and watching his kids participate in sports and compete in band competitions. He also loved to play cards, especially Hand & Foot.
Memorial services will be Saturday December 9th, 2023, 11am at First United Methodist Church, 4600 Stockdale Hwy, Bakersfield Ca 93309. In Lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution in Gary’s name to the First United Methodist Church Senior Center, 4600 Stockdale Hwy, Bakersfield Ca 93309.
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