Gary Wayne Garrett

November 1, 1946 – November 24, 2024

Gary Wayne Garrett, 78, of Elkhart, passed away on Sunday, November 24, 2024, at his home, after courageously battling acute myeloid leukemia.  He was born on November 1, 1946, in Lawrence County, Alabama, to parents Bernice (Appleton) and Travis Garrett.

Gary married his high-school sweetheart, Nancy K. (Leasure) Garrett, on June 3, 1967, in Elkhart, IN. She survives, along with their two children: Gena Vogelgesang (Mark Vogelgesang) of Noblesville, IN, and Jacob Garrett of Malibu, CA. In addition, Gary is survived by his sister, Donna Bellino; three grandchildren, Owen Vogelgesang, Gavin Vogelgesang, and Avery Vogelgesang; his sister-in-law, Barb Kipker (Steve Kipker); four nieces, Natalie Garrett, Lisa Null, Courtney Kipker, and Lindsey Bellino (Tara Call); and a nephew, Kyle Bellino. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Aaron Garrett, and his best friend and brother-in-law, Geno Bellino. 

Gary spent his early childhood in Alabama, where he developed a love for the red clay countryside and shared fond memories of days spent with his many aunts, uncles, and cousins. His family moved to Elkhart when he was in his early teens, and he graduated from Elkhart High School in 1965. Gary had a long career in road and bridge construction, working for Zirkle, Reith-Riley, and Niblock for over 35 years. Prior to retiring, Gary obtained his CDL license and relished the freedom of driving the open road, seeing the sights across the country. 

Gary loved a day on the ballfield and spent many years as a volunteer coach for Concord Little League.  After retirement, he volunteered for the DAV Transportation Network, driving veterans from Elkhart County to medical appointments in Indianapolis. 

Gary was an avid fan of Alabama football—Roll Tide! His favorite pastime was taking long drives and seeing the sights along the road, often in his red convertible T-Bird. Gary appreciated cars, watching races with friends, and visiting classic car museums. He loved spending Saturday afternoons with his good friends, Rob, Bruce and many others, as they cheered on their favorite college teams.  In his later years, Gary and Nancy enjoyed traveling, sharing many trips with their good friends, Chuck and Ruth Hiar.

Cremation will take place, and a private celebration of life gathering will be planned for a later date. Memorial contributions may be given to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or the charity of the donor’s choice. 

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