Gary A. Wilson

Gary A. Wilson, 61, passed away after a short battle with Pancreatic Cancer. He leaves behind many associates and friends, especially Barbara Galica, Tina Binheimer, Jennifer Miller (Tim), Rob Wilson (Evelyn), as well as two beloved Golden Retrievers Max and Kash, who were all at his side assisting him through his final journey. Gary also leaves step siblings Colleen Lozier (Jay Griffin) and Ted Williams, as well as his friends since childhood Jack and Kent Dungfelder. He was predeceased by his father Curtis Wilson and mother Madeline “Joyce” (Haynes) Wilson. Gary was a true Patriot and loved his country. He served in the US Navy from 1981 to 1985 and Navy Reserves from 1985 to 1987 as an Aviation Structural Mechanic working on the VS-28 Gamblers. During those years, Gary had multiple deployments to Beirut, Lebanon as well as Grenada during Operation Urgent Fury and was proud to be aboard “his ship”, the USS Independence (CV-62). Gary honorably discharged at the rank of AME3 and earned Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (2 awards), Navy Unit Commendation, Navy Expeditionary Ribbon (2 awards), and Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. Besides his country, Gary’s passion was protecting animals. He did this over his years by working in many roles such as Animal Cruelty Investigator for the CT Humane Society, Municipal Animal Control Officer for several towns, and Animal Inspector. The last five years prior to his passing, Gary worked as a State Animal Control Officer for the CT Department of Agriculture of which he was the most proud of. Besides his country, friends, and animals, Gary loved helping his community. He did this in various ways, however, he is most proud of being a member of the Stafford Fire Department No. 1 as an Engineer, EMR, attended many school events and Safety Days as well as being member of Tolland County Dive Team, both of which he was still an active member. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, May 9, 2024 from 3:00-5:00 PM at Introvigne Funeral Home, Inc., 51 East Main St., Stafford Springs, CT. Burial with Military Honors will be held on Friday, May 17, 2024 at 12:00 PM at the State of Connecticut Veterans' Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane, Middletown, CT. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to an animal rescue charity of choice, or to Stafford Fire Department No. 1, P.O. Box 147, Staffordville, CT 06077. To leave a condolence online, please visit: www.introvignefuneralhome.com

Gary A. Wilson

May 7, 2024