Sally & I have known Gary for over 20 years. We’ve gone a long way back. We first met Gary & Betty through our friend Ron Willis through their friend Warren.

I purchased an air compressor from Gary. I remember he liked to make things and I was always amazed at what he did in his garage.

Gary & Warren put a new motor in our 73 Ford Truck, which is going to be my hearse someday. This truck was my dad’s truck and I purchased it from mom after dad’s death in 1977.

I’ve always liked Gary. He was a person who always was willing to fix our vehicles. Once when our old Dodge was leaking gasoline, I drove it over to their place and Gary was able to fix it.

I’d call Gary and he was always willing to give me advice. Like I said, he was my friend.

When Ron & I had the pontoon boat in Pamona lake, Gary & Betty used to use it. Of course, the beer was flowing and I was always the straight guy, or was I designated driver.

Gary loved his beer. We’d be at Ron & Linda’s place and Gary would either come over or call and say "Let’s get cranked!" We’d all laugh and continue our drinking. Gary was a unique friend.

Once Gary called me and wanted me to take a picture of a Coors beer can. He claimed that it was unique. I came over and took a picture of it and I think I make a Web Page out of it.

Speaking of the Internet, I once had a discussion with Gary about him helping me become an ePREZ.

You see, Gary was one of only a handful of folks who understands me too. My humor and Gary’s were alike in many ways. I asked Gary to join me in the HOLTER for President on the Internet. Gary was suppose to get a computer, get online and plug my campaign.

I once asked Gary to send me a Eulogy. He did not. So Gary, I guess you’ll have to Eulogize yourself someday and I’d like to read about your own obituary in your own words.

Gary & I were also a team in gathering firewood at Ron & Linda’s when they lived off of Burlingame road. Once, Gary had a load of firewood in the back of his pickup. He had no control over his steering and we laughed and laughed about that. Afterwards, we’d check out his fridge in his garage and I’d always have my one beer with my beer-drinking buddy.

Seemed like Gary & his next door neighbor and best friend Warren would always have some sort of project going. Mostly they’d have their beer in hand and I always felt welcome in coming over for a beer.

My good friend Ron W. and I used to meet over at his garage and I’d be in envy at his talents with mechanical and wood. Guess that’s why I had Gary & Warren put a new engine in our truck.

I don’t remember Gary ever having a job. Guess he didn’t’ want one. He did odd jobs and always was paid in cash. Guess the IRS can’t argue with that. I envy his financial skills.

The last conversation I had with Gary was a few months ago regarding my air compressor. He gave me his advice, and I purchased a new motor. My air compressor was purchased from him many years ago.

I asked Ron Willis his phone number a few weeks ago and I did not call him, regretfully. I wanted to know if he’s make a CD for me from a cassette. I’m feeling bad about not calling him now.

Gary loved computers too, but in a different sort of way. With the advent of the Internet, I tried to get him on email, etc. but he was only interested in what makes them work. I tried to convince him that I’d help him purchase a cheap PC thru my son John and we could do email together.

In regards to PC’s Gary was only interested in playing his music on them through the CD’s portion. I was always amazed at his electronics setup. Of course his music was Country Western.

So, I feel badly that I didn’t try to "pester" Gary about doing email, the Internet, Etc.

I was able to pay my respects to Gary tonight at the funeral home. I missed the 1^st game of bowling.

We should all remember Gary’s family & Betty in our prayers. I for one will miss my buddy Gary.

See ya in heaven ole buddy

Myron