Gary Lee Carpenter

Gary Lee Carpenter, age 85 of West Lafayette, passed away on Wednesday, March 1, 2023 at his home with his family by his side. He was born on February 8, 1938 in Coshocton to the late Ralph W. and Nellie H. (Mrock) Carpenter.

After graduating from West Lafayette High School in 1956, he joined the United States Navy, serving his country proudly from 1957 to 1961. During his time in the Navy, Gary was a Radio Operator, flying in blimps and sea planes.

On May 4, 1957, he married Sharon (Markley) Carpenter, who passed away on May 10, 1998. As a member of the Cambridge Social Dance Club for over 20 years, Gary enjoyed ballroom dancing, square dancing, and country line dancing. He also enjoyed skiing and fishing. Gary was an Elks member for over 40 years; a member of the Moose and the National Association for Gun Rights; and a lifetime member of the NRA. Gary was an avid reader of history books. He enjoyed travelling and spending time with his family. He was kind, witty, ornery, and everything we could have asked for in a partner, father, grandparent, and friend.

Gary is survived by his partner of 24 years, Martha Owens; children Lauri (Chad) King, Jean Carpenter, Christopher (Franc) Carpenter, and Steven (Theresa Crites) Carpenter; Martha’s children, Rhonda (Dave) Paul, Voni (Terry) Oliver and Nina (Walt) Tietski; 12 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; his sister Nancy (Lynn) Rotruck; and his sisters-in-law Violet (Foster) Carpenter, and Nancy Cupps, and brother-in-law Danny (June) Markley.

Along with his parents and wife, Gary is preceded in death by his great-grandson, Zander Carpenter and brother, Larry Carpenter.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, March 6, 2023 at Given-Dawson-Paisley Funeral Home from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. Funeral services will follow at 12:00 pm at the funeral home with Pastor Dan Eggan officiating. Burial will follow at Fairfield Cemetery with the Coshocton County Honor Guard performing military honors.

For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made in Gary’s name to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741.

An online memorial can be viewed at www.given-dawson-paisleyfh.com.