Gary was born September 30, 1938 in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada. He grew up in Port Huron, Michigan where he joined the military as a teen and served in the US Navy for 20 years, retiring as a chief petty officer. He also served Cobb County and Cherokee County Sheriff Offices, retiring as a Captain with 20 years combined service.
Gary is survived by his loving wife of 54 years Wilma Palmer Rowe, their children, Sonya McCullough (Marty), Randy Rowe (Ewa), Beckie Shirley (Doug), Mike Brewer (Sharon), and their beloved dog Emily. He adored their 11 grandchildren, Adam McCullough (Paige), Cory McCullough (Kelsie), Michael Rowe, Tiffany Rowe, Alan Shirley (Heather), Chad Shirley (Kelly), David Brewer (Jami), Jenny Brewer, Matthew Brewer, Joey Brewer and Lesley Brewer. Great grandchildren, Nora McCullough, Valarian Rowe, Grayson and Garrett Shirley, and Allie and Brooke Shirley. Brother, John Rowe (Carmela) nieces, nephews and extended family. He is predeceased by his parents June Marie Rowe, Fred Rowe, Norman Sharpe and granddaughter Lindsay Marie Brewer.
A Celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, September 18, 2021 at 11:00 AM at Kennesaw United Methodist Church, 1801 Ben King Rd, Kennesaw, GA. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Burial will take place at Kennesaw Memorial Park following the funeral service. Current COVID-19 safeguards will be observed for the services.
Memorial gifts in lieu of flowers to Venezuela Now Inc., P.O. Box 2855, Acworth, GA 30102 or Kennesaw United Methodist Church.
