Howard Warren Gary

EAST POLAND — Howard Warren Gary, 60, of East Poland, died on Saturday, December 18, 2010 at his home surrounded by loving family and friends. He was born on February 7, 1950, the son of Wilfred and Dorothy (Thurston) Gary. He graduated from Edward Little in 1968; after high school he joined the Armed Forces where he received an honorable discharge from the Air National Guard 1974. He was a lineman for Verizon (previously New England Telephone and Nynex) from 1970-1996 and then he worked for Dead River Oil Company.

He dedicated his life to Empire Grove Campmeeting Association as manager and groundskeeper for more than 25 years. His many talents were inspiring to all who knew him and showed his vibrancy of living. He offered his stability, reverence, spirituality and creativity with his own sense of humor. He was also part of the Recreation Dept., and was involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Androscoggin County.

He could build anything and everything. He enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren and with his .

Mr. Gary is survived by his wife, Deborah (Estes) Gary; daughter, Krista (Gary) Atwood, three step-daughters, Katie (McAllister) Libby, Kristina (McAllister) Wilson and Kayla Nowell; three sons-in-law, Gary Atwood, Corey Libby and Eric Wilson; brother, Arthur Gary; two grandsons, Benjamin Atwood and Cooper Libby and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Wilfred and Dorothy (Thurston) Gary and his brother, Richard Gary.

A private service for immediate family and close friends will be held next week. A memorial service will be scheduled for the early summer.

Donations in Mr. Gary's honor may be made to Empire Grove United Methodist Campmeeting Association, P.O. Box 35, East Poland, ME 04230 or to the ALS Association, Northern New England Chapter, The Concord Center, 10 Ferry Street, Suite 438, Concord, NH 03301.

Condolences may be expressed at Funeralalternatives.net.