Michael Gary Chura (75) of Olathe, Kansas, born October 30, 1948, in Aurora, Colorado, son of Michael and Connie (Patton) Chura. He died after a battle with cancer, March 11th, 2024 at his home. Anyone else fighting stage 4 pancreatic cancer would go quietly, but Gary threw caution to the wind truly living the time he had remaining. He spent some of his last days in his shop working on projects. One of his last creations was an insulated house for a stray neighborhood cat which was a true reflection of his kind nature and love of animals.
Gary grew up in Colorado and enjoyed many camping trips with his parents, sister and extended family. He served his country for 3 years in the Army as a crane operator in Vietnam. He worked as a store manager for Nappa Auto Parts. His love of animals included horses and he worked with them as a farrier. Later, he worked for several trucking companies hauling everything from groceries to steel across the U.S. and imparted his road wisdom to his students as a truck driving instructor.
In 1988, Gary met Penny who lived next door and quickly became a playmate for his then three- and two-year-old daughters. Typical of their fun life together, their first date was a rodeo and pizza in Paola! They married in 1992 and enjoyed life together in Olathe. They created their own fun with family and friends, which included many pie and balloon fights, and marching around the block in Sombreros singing ‘Yellow Submarine’!
He prided himself on being a ‘luddite’ with his outdated flip phone and preferred keeping things simple and on the Lord’s time (not Day Light Saving Time). He loved his children and adored his one granddaughter, Lydia – frequently taking her to Home Depot, Tractor Supply or his beloved Mickeys Army Surplus Store!
Gary could build anything and fix everything! After retiring he gladly volunteered his time and carpentry skills to Grace United Methodist Church which he loved. He cherished his church family.
Gary is survived by his wife, Penny; children, Jason, Stacey, Amanda (Aaron) and Leah (Matthew); his sister Donna; his granddaughter, Lydia; and many nieces, nephews and friends. He is predeceased by his mother, Connie; and father, Michael.
The family would like to thank all who took great care of him including Olathe Hospice, his church community and personal friends.
In lieu of flowers the family would very much appreciate donations be made to The Center of Grace 520 South Harrison Street Olathe, Kansas 66061. Condolences may be offered at www.McGilley-Frye.com
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