Gary Garton

On Saturday, September 28, 2024, Gary W. Garton, 84, of Elmwood Township died peacefully at home after a long battle with dementia. He leaves behind his best friend and wife of 27 years, Nancy Cover, his sons Don and Cary (Mailee and Bennett), his friend and younger sister, Mary (Vic) and several grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Gary was born on April 30, 1940 in Niles, Michigan to Bennett and Veronica (Gitre) Garton. When he was 18, he enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served in Vietnam. During his Naval career he also did several tours on submarines. He went on to have a successful career working as an Intelligence Analyst for the Department of Defense and retired after 30 years to Lime Lake in Leelanau County. During his retirement he served on the Cleveland Township Board and also owned and operated a private investigations business, Northern Rim Investigations.

Gary enjoyed life on the lake and all lake activities, especially fishing. He had a quick wit and a great sense of humor. He loved to cook and enjoyed entertaining family and friends. He also enjoyed family poker parties and delighted in winning everyone's nickles and dimes. He had a sharp mind which made his struggle with dementia all the more difficult and heart breaking.

As he grew older and his disease progressed, it was his family and his dogs who brought him his greatest happiness and comfort. His Newfoundland, Maxx, and his lab/terrier mix, Bear-Bear, stayed by his side until the end.

Gary was a good man and he will be greatly missed. There are no services planned at this time.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Michigan for their support and compassion.

Memorial contributions may be made to animal rescues or charities of choice.

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