Gary V. Wells

Gary V. Wells AIFD, CFD, age 74, has gone to be with his Lord and to design for Him in Heaven after a long battle with both cancer and ALS. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, and friend.

Gary was born and raised in Charlotte, Michigan, where he developed a deep love for music. He spent many years supporting his sisters in their musical endeavors before joining the marching band himself. Gary enjoyed playing the cornet, french horn, and organ. He later went on to study music at the University of Kansas.

For over 50 years, Gary made a lasting impact as a florist and freelance designer. His career began in a small shop in Charlotte, eventually taking him to Lansing and later Grand Rapids. Gary traveled the world to teach the art of floral and balloon design. His work was featured in numerous floral publications in the U.S. and Europe, and he published several instructional books. In 1980, he was honored as the “Young Person of the Year” by the floral industry and was inducted into the American Institute of Floral Design (AIFD). Among his many accomplishments, he had the privilege of designing the flowers for the inaugural balls for President Ronald Reagan.

Outside of his professional achievements, Gary's greatest passion was his family. He and his wife of nearly 50 years, Kathleen (Balyeat), raised three children, gained three more children through marriage, and were blessed with nine grandchildren. He took immense pride in watching them excel academically and athletically. Gary loved attending their events and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on from the stands.

Gary's love extended beyond his family. He was a man of deep faith and was devoted to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He lived his life faithfully, using his gifts and talents to serve Him.

Gary is survived by his wife, Kathleen; children Rachel (Joel) Heagle of Byron Center, Aaron (Diana) Wells of Byron Center, and Andy (Andraya) Wells of Grandville; and nine beloved grandchildren Brennen (fiancée, Kiera Welden) Wells, Ainsley Wells, Justin Heagle, Riley Wells, Ben Heagle, Lexi Heagle, Addison Wells, and Al Wells. He is also survived by his sisters Karen Watson and Donis Osborn; sisters-in-law Janice (Eric) Balyeat-Hansen, Janet (Paul Hansen) Balyeat; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Leslie and Eunice Wells; in-laws Edward and Jeanette Balyeat; brothers-in-law Larry Osborn, Richard Watson; and sister-in-law, Margaret Balyeat.

Visitation with Gary’s family and friends will be held from 2-6 p.m. Sunday, March 30, 2025 at Cook Memorial Chapel, 4235 Prairie Street SW, Grandville, Michigan 49418. Celebration of Gary’s life will be held 11 a.m. Monday, March 31, 2025, with visitation beginning 10 a.m., at Grace Community Church, 3500 New Holland Street, Hudsonville, Michigan 49426. In honor of Gary, contributions may be made to Grace Community Church. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.