Gary Robert Bricker passed away peacefully on Christmas Eve at the age of 73 surrounded by family and friends. He was born in Bangor, Maine on October 26th 1946 the son of Herschel Bricker and Cecelia (Kohl) Bricker. Gary grew up in Orono and attended the University of Maine. Being a kid at heart, he enjoyed his life’s work as a sales manager for many toy stores including Kaybee Toys. Gary had a love for model trains, enjoyed camping and hiking, and was an avid reader. He enjoyed cooking and baking, teaching all of his culinary knowledge to his grandchildren Michael and Emma. Gary loved all animals but had a soft spot for cats, including his own, Oreo and Angie. Family was always important to Gary; he found a second family with his daughter Betsy at her Life Center program. He had an enormous heart and loved to cheer on all the athletes in Special Olympic events. One of his favorite times of the year was to attend the Summer Games in Orono. Gary was the perpetual jokester, always quick with a one-liner or dirty joke. He enjoyed making people laugh.
Gary is survived by his loving wife Holly of 46 years, his daughters Jennifer Bricker of Glenburn and Betsy Bricker of Auburn, his beloved grandchildren Michael and Emma Gallant of Glenburn, and extended family Ann Bittner of Gorham and Matt Bittner and Julia Nichols of Yarmouth. He will be sadly missed by many, including his family friends Brian and Cat Sass, Beverly Robichaud, Sue Breau and Paul Beaulieu, The Hallowell Family, Laurier and Patricia Pelletier, The Merrill Family, The Kelsea Family, and The Dunham Family.
Visitation will be held on Sunday January 12th from 12pm to 2pm at the Fortin Funeral Home in Auburn. Service and reception to follow. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Gary’s name to Forgotten Felines of Maine, 499 Broadway #151 Bangor, Maine.
Condolences and fond memories of Gary may be shared at: www.thefortingroupauburn.com
