Gary was born on August 5, 1937 in Monona, Iowa, the son of Leslie E. Drallmeier and Betty J. Snyder. At the age of 19, Gary married his high school sweetheart, Patrosenia (Pat) Nonog and they were happily married for 62 years until her death in 2018. They enjoyed each other's company while traveling, fishing, cooking, entertaining friends, and loved MSU football and basketball. Gary had a knack for always winning Trivial Pursuit without help and loved to read and write. Gary received his undergraduate degrees from the University of Montana and his masters degree and PhD from the University of Washington in 1969. Upon graduation, Gary spent 36 years teaching and holding several academic leadership positions at Michigan State University concluding with his retirement in 2006 as the acting dean of Social Science.
Gary is survived by his daughters, Valerie Hoag (Rob), Karen Manson (Scott), Barbara Schaibly (Kelvin); son, Paul Manson (Julie); brother and sister-in-law, Dwayne and Shirley Manson; six grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
There are no public services scheduled for Gary at this time.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Gary's memory may be made to the Stoneleigh Residence & Hospice of Lansing, 3186 Pine Tree Rd., Lansing, Michigan 48911.
