Gary Krosch

After deciding to become a runner as the "boom" began in the mid 70's, and living near Forest Park, the mecca of the St. Louis running community, it was only natural that our lives would organically mesh with Gary at some point. Yes, Gary was, indeed, the straw that stirred drinks, the constant presence at the corner of Wydown and Skinker, rain or shine, no shirt in the warm weather and only a short sleeve shirt and gloves in the dead of winter to do a lap of the Park or even a down and back...

We met Gary and Patty when they moved next door to us in Middletown, NJ in 1976. They were neighbors for less than 3 years.....they are "forever friends" to us and our 3 children! We were introduced to Gary's perseverance when we caught him on a cold winter day on his ice covered roof chipping the ice from his TV antenna so he could watch the Vikings football game. Gary's running career started when he would run their 2 Afghans, Nick and Mo, on loops around our neighborhood. His passion...

I have so many good memories of Gary. He lived his life, each day, to the fullest. Devoting time to Forest Park Forever, Fontbonne, and the many other civic accomplishments and volunteer work he pursued for the betterment of the community. He was tireless. Yet, he was approachable to everyone. He always found time to do more. His kindness was genuine. Always modest, always gracious. From showing up for Saturday morning runs sharing a stem of grapes with his running friends, to him and...

It was a sad day when I recently learned of Gary's passing. My heart goes out to Patty, the family and all the close friends who enjoyed Gary's companionship and loyalty over the years. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers. I met Gary shortly after he arrived in St. Louis and began his journey as the Colonel. I had the pleasure of partnering and working with Gary as Colonel Day's enjoyed many successful years. Gary was more than a boss and business partner. He was also a...

Patty so very saddened to see your loss of Gary sweet memories of you both

Gary was a force of nature with a presence larger than life. If the phrase "make it happen" had a dictionary entry, his picture would be next to it. He and his wife Patty have given so very much to this city and region with never an iota of self-promotion or self-aggrandizement. The debt the region owes him for his part in restoring Forest Park can't be overstated, as while everyone recognizes its value today, Gary would tell you that going around to solicit donations back then wasn't the...

We´ve lost a champion for St Louis.

Gary and Jamie set up camp at the northeast corner of Shaw Park Pool every weekend. You could count on them precisely from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Their spot was a gathering place. Gary was sought after for his business knowledge, extensive travels, athletic abilities and his down to earth kindness. He leaves a big space. The NE corner will never be the same.

I worked together with Gary on the Board of the St. Louis Community Foundation. He was a great man - and I´m thankful for having met him!