With love and remembrance, we announce the passing of Gary Pope, a devoted son, husband, brother-in-law, father and grandfather, who left this world on 12 April after a long journey with cancer. He was 85.
Born in Negaunee, Michigan, to Agnes (née Latvala) and C. Allan, Gary was raised in Ann Arbor alongside his “favorite” sister, Marcia (Westfall). As a youngster he was active in Boy Scouts, an experience that helped shape his character, foster his love of the outdoors, and instill a deep sense of responsibility. During his high school years, he distinguished himself both on the track and in marching band, proudly playing the trumpet and tuba. Gary joined his father in the house painting business, where their shared work ethic and pride in craftsmanship brought happiness to so many customers. He served our country as part of the Army National Guard. And he was a lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, appreciative of its pastors over many decades and fellowship of the men’s coffee group.
Gary married the love of his life, RuthAnn Krull in May 1966. For 60 years, they dedicated themselves to a partnership grounded in unwavering devotion and shared purpose. With the help of family and friends, each skilled in various trades, they proudly built their forever home and raised their family next door to his parents in Scio Township. There, he enjoyed life’s simple pleasures: mowing grass or plowing snow on his trusty tractor, watching the Tigers and Red Wings, pasties, and sitting on the front porch during rainstorms. Those moments reflected the practical life he sought. Gary relished time spent Up North, snowmobiling through Ludington, Manistee, and Houghton Lake, and playing cards with extended relatives and friends. At the family’s Luther cabin, also built across generations, he created countless memories fishing, hunting, and sharing stories around the camp-stove that grew richer with every telling.
Gary leaves behind his beloved wife, two children, Christine (Chris) Gordon and Mark (Stacy) Pope, and six cherished grandchildren: Avery, Alex, Gibson, Garett, Brody, and Brynn, each of whom brought him immense pride and joy. He was preceded in death by one of his three children, Jennifer, whose undimmable memory remained forever close to his heart. We all take comfort in knowing she’s got dad now, welcoming him with an ice-cold Southern Comfort and 7-Up.
Gary will be remembered for the many ways he showed up for those he loved, with steady hands and a committed heart. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled and the lives he shaped. Dad’s medical care teams, Glazier Commons, and Arbor Hospice were exceptionally nurturing and compassionate. Donations in his memory can be sent to St. Paul (420 W. Liberty St., Ann Arbor, MI 48103) or the American Cancer Society. Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will be held soon. Burial will be at Bethlehem Cemetery in Ann Arbor.
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