LEO JAMES GARY

Leo James Gary passed away peacefully at home on November 30, 2021. Leo was born in Gladwin, Michigan on February 25, 1961.

Leo spent his career providing public service to his community as a firefighter for 36 years and serving children through driving bus and custodial careers as a Harrison Community Schools employee. He proudly earned the badge of two-time recipient of Firefighter of the Year for Harrison in 1992 and for Gladwin in 2008.

Leo continued his public servant roles as the Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security for Gladwin County and was a State Fire Instructor. He continued to save lives as a medical first responder through United Rescue service in Clare County.

Although his years were spent in public safety, Leo thrived during time with his family spent laughing and playing pranks. Leo battled cancer and Lupus for 17 years but never lost his sense of humor or love for jokes. He was fondly called “Superman” for his strength and fight for so many years. Leo was also notoriously known for being late for everything. His family eventually learned to invite him hours earlier than he should arrive and began setting the clocks at home ahead. Leo had a magnetic personality that drew children in and gave them the smile and comfort they needed. He treasured moments spent with students and opportunities he had to mentor others.

Leo is survived by his wife Helen Gary, whom he was married to for forty years. The couple met on November 11, 1979, and it was love at first sight for Leo. He maintained that love until the moment he took his last breath with her by his side. Leo always wanted children and he and Helen had two daughters, Andrea Gary and Allisha Gary both of Harrison. Leo is also survived by his adoring grandchildren; Alexandrea Warren, Carter Gengler, Warik Gary and Gary Maczynski, as well as his siblings; Mickey Duby, Cheryl Gary, Nancy Shockey, Pamela Socier, Rebecca Wentworth, Robert Gary and Joanne Remmert, plus many nieces, nephews, family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Betty June (Edwards) Gary and Robert Lee Gary.

A celebration of life was held for Leo on Saturday, December 4 at the Hamilton Township Hall. Cremation services for Leo were provided by Central Michigan Affordable Cremation in Mount Pleasant. Donations and condolences for the family can be made to Helen Gary, 4755 Poplar Drive, Harrison, MI 48625.