At age 93, Gary Arthur Kearney (Papa) went to his eternal home peacefully, while sleeping in his favorite recliner at the Kearney Ranch. Gary was a devoted Catholic. He believed in the power of one's God-given conscience as a guiding force in life.
As an entrepreneur and successful businessman, Gary motivated people, especially his children and grandchildren, to set goals, work hard, and don't waste time. Papa would regularly remind others: "Life goes by fast - get moving", "just think...in 30 years...you'll be how old?", and "The golden years aren't exactly what they're cracked up to be". He lived by Teddy Roosevelt's words: "Speak softly and carry a big stick".
Gary used his keen sense of humor to get his points across and build relationships. Who doesn't know Papa's classic comedic style and infamous grin! His lifelong friendships meant the world to him.
Gary was the youngest child born to Victor Keaney and Wilhamina Ruge in San Jose, California. He dearly loved his two older brothers, Bob and Vic as well as his sister Colleen. Gary was the last surviving member of his family.
In 1947, along with his brothers, Gary built a pattern shop/iron foundry business from the ground up (literally). This venture was placed on hold by the Korean War. Always a patriot, Gary served his country as a staff sergeant. The army quickly identified his math skills and had him running the finances of his division: "fighting finance", he often said.
Gary met his bride Helen Lucich before the war at Temperance Kutner Elementary School. He was known as quite the prankster and would chase the Lucich girls home from school with thistle branches. Through correspondence during the war, Helen and Gary kept in touch. Helen's baked goods pretty much sealed the deal. When he returned from Korea, he gave her a "box of chocolates" on Valentine's Day (long before Forrest Gump); a diamond ring was hidden inside. They married August 8 1953 and were blessed with four children.
Returning to entrepreneurship, the family business ventures were growing rapidly: Kearney Foundries, Kearney Metals, Fresno Pipe, and Kearneys' Rentals. Gary along with his brother Vic were determined to make the businesses thrive. Born during the Depression, Gary's goal was always to provide for his family for generations to come. His life was dedicated to making sure they were well taken care of and had the tools needed to survive.
Gary was devoted to God first. He sent his children to St. Helen's Elementary School and San Joaquin Memorial, where he himself had been part of the high school's inaugural graduating class. He dearly loved his family, his country, his businesses, golfing, his beach house, and fine dining. Gary despised tomatoes, onions, and itchy clothes; he made sure EVERYONE knew. (His mother sewed a silk lining into his army uniform).
Gary was preceded in death by his parents Willamena and Victor Kearney, a newborn daughter, and his son Michael. He is survived by his wife Helen - daughters: Kathy Kearney, and Christine Christensen (Doug) - grandchildren: Sean Allen (Kristin), Kendra Heinrich (James) Kathryn Seitz, Kaarin Kearney, Spencer Christensen (Kristie), Kevin Kearney (Sarah), Eric Christensen (Miriam) and William Christensen - great-grandchildren: Rylee, Kimber Seitz, Barrett Seitz Jack Allen, Emily Christensen, Presley Kearney and due any day, baby boy Heinrich, along with numerous nieces, nephews and godchildren.
Visitation will be on June 19, 2023, from 3-7 pm at Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns & Blair (836 E. Nees Ave., Fresno CA 93720) with the Recitation of the Rosary following at 7 pm.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 am on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at St. Anthony of Padua Church (5770 N. Maroa Ave., Fresno 93704). Interment will follow at Belmont Memorial Park in Fresno.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider donating to San Joaquin Memorial High School or the Poverello House.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.whitehurstsullivan.com for the Kearney family.
