Gary Dean Gitchell, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025, in his hometown of Niles, Michigan, at the age of 85. Born to Marvin Duane Gitchell and Vivian Gene (East) Bolton on March 13, 1940, Gary was a lifelong resident of Niles, where he established deep roots and contributed significantly to the community he loved.

Gary was a devoted family man, survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Kathryn Marie (Sykes) Gitchell, his daughter Bethney (Richard) Davidson of Bel Air, Maryland, his sister Joan VanLue, and half-brother Dennis Gitchell. His legacy continues through his granddaughter, Rebecca (Dylan) Schaeffer, and his great-grandson, Leo Scott Schaeffer, who brought him profound joy.

In 1976, Gary founded Gi

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