Gary Vernon Heesch passed away peacefully on May 12, 2022, surrounded by his children.

Gary was born August 20, 1936, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. As a teenager, his family moved to Portland, Oregon, where he lived until enlisting in the US Air Force at the tender age of 17. After four years of military service in Germany, he served a three-year religious mission in the Four Corners region with the Navajo (Diné) and Hopi tribes. He carried a lifelong love for the German and Diné languages and people.

Gary attended Brigham Young University, where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and made many lifelong friends. He and his first wife, Carol Lee, were married in 1962. Together they raised seven children across California, Oregon and Utah. Gary became a medical researcher and developer, and lived with a passion for improving people’s lives.

He will be remembered as a wonderful son, brother, patriot, missionary, husband, father and friend. He loved God, Jesus Christ and his family. He was loyal, kind and unselfish—his heart always put others before himself. Gary lived a life of joy, adventure, sadness and service.

Nature was his playground. Side Lake, Minnesota was his fairy land. Family was his love. His children were his everything.

We miss you, Gary—you will be remembered.

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Condolences(3)

Gary Boldrey says
May 20, 2022 at 1:26 am

I met Gary when I planned to marry one of his daughters Amy. We did not see eye to eye over several issues at that time , but he always showed respect for my opinions. I grew to love him and respect his dreams and talents over many years. All the while knowing he cared for me and our kids. He was always gracious and extended his home for all of us even as an extended family. I have always felt he loved his family in good times and bad and would do almost anything for them. May he rest easy until we meet again.
Mary Ryan says
May 20, 2022 at 6:28 pm

Sending much to Julie from the Ryan family
MaryAnn Damerell says
May 23, 2022 at 2:25 am

Gary and I met as teenagers in our Mt. Tabor Ward youth group. We had such good times. Dances, beach trips, helping build a new chapel, and a youth choir. We have kept in touch during our ‘senior’ years. I always loved his sweet, kind way. I shall miss him and our phone visits. His pride and love for his family was always evident in our conversations. Kudos, dear family for such a wonderful and loving tribute.