He graduated from Westlake High School and served in the U. S. Army, before returning to Westlake where he worked at the Olin-Matheson plant. He then worked as a contract employee at Dow Chemicals in Port Allen. Gary retired as Publishing Systems Manager for the Lake Charles American Press.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Greg, his sister-in-law Donna, and his brother-in-law Tom.
He is survived by his wife, Julie, and their sons, Jason Fletcher and Shaun (Lacey) Fletcher; former daughter-in-law Kim Fletcher; grandchildren Dakota Fletcher, Isaac Fletcher, Sarah Fletcher, Elijah Fletcher, Maria Fletcher, and Sophia Fletcher; two great-grandchildren, Lilly and Melody; his brother Dennis Fletcher of Lake Charles and sister Belinda (Bud) Grimes of Everton, Arkansas; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Gary enjoyed figuring out how things worked - and how to improve something's function. He would immerse himself in learning about whatever his current interest was, from astronomy to weather, geology, airplanes, historic battles, knot-tying, music, barbecuing, and more. He loved to joke around and poke light-hearted fun at life. Gary also enjoyed hiking, and always made detours to find waterfalls. He loved his family very much.
The family would like to thank the staff at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, especially the APTC staff, for the care and compassion they showed Gary.
Visitation will begin at 4:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11, 2024 at Hixson Funeral Home in Westlake and will resume at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home.
A Celebration of Life Service will begin at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at Hixson Funeral Home in Westlake. Hixson Celebrant, Jody Tyler will lead services. Burial will follow in Magnolia Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his honor to Community Outreach Center of DeQuincy, Open Door Biker Church of Sulphur, or Care Help of Sulphur.
