Gary went to be with God on January 27, 2024 after being diagnosed with acute leukemia a month before.

Gary was born May 22, 1945 to Arnold and Lucille Haines. From the age of nine he would work summers at his uncle’s resort called Whispering Pines. He loved the outdoors, fishing and hunting. A passion he passed on to his sons. Later in life he bought property on Matthews Lake.

He proudly served his country in the Army and fought in Vietnam. He worked for GTE for many years. After retiring he opened his own heating and air conditioning business, before finishing his working days with Heartwood Conference Center. In 1997, he married Colleen Cipra and on February 14th it would have been 27 years of marriage. He was a giver and always stepped up to help anyone he could. He made friends wherever he went. Gary was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. He new how to fix and build and was a man of all trades. He loved fishing tournaments and playing horseshoes and pool and teaching his grandchildren to fish. Gary belonged to the Spooner United Methodist where he sang in the choir for many years.

He is survived by his wife, Colleen; two sons, Bob (Kaettie) and Jim (Audrey); two stepdaughters, Tiffini (Jason) and Stephanie (Jon); eleven grandchildren; three brothers, Rod, Brad, and Jack; one sister Jill; a sister-in-law, Del; and many nieces, nephews and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister-in-law, Lori; a brother-in-law, Dick; and many aunts and uncles.

A celebration of life will be held on May 4th.

Last Update: Jan 29, 2024 10:21 am CST