Gary-Spratling-Obituary

Gary Spratling

Tiburon, California

1941 - 2025

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Tiburon, California

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Gary Spratling11/28/1941 - 03/26/2025Much-beloved and respected Tiburon civil leader and friend, Gary R. Spratling, passed on March 26, 2025. Gary was a giant in our local community and globally in the legal community, based on his leadership at both the United States Department of Justice...

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My condolences to the Spratling family on the passing of Gary. I lived at 2015 16th Avenue across the street from Gary, Dick, and Don from 1942 until 1953 when my family moved to Palo Alto. I have fond memories of growing up on 16th Avenue during those years. Apparently, Gary and I were at UC Berkeley during the same period in the early 1960s, though our paths never crossed.

I grew up in Tiburon and had a somewhat Chaotic Childhood as the son of a single mother. As a result I often sought guidance from adults that took an interest in me and my development. Gary was one of these people. When I expressed an interest in law, Gary brought me over to his office and showed me the Federal Courts and his office. He advised me and counseled me through my teen years and through Law School. He helped me select a law school and upon graduation encouraged and supported...

Randomly met Gary in 1984 taking my Pantera to Mt Tamela´s in the parking lot there. A true Pantera enthusiast, it was an instant lifetime friendship

I offer my condolences. I´ve been his gardener for 45 years.

I had the pleasure of working with Gary during his tenure as Chief of the SF Field office of the US DOJ Anti-Trust Division. He knew his business as well if not better than any other lawyer in that Division but his generosity and collegiality added value to every meeting among components that he attended. His contribution to the administration of Justice is incalculable.

Gary was my first boss as a lawyer. Bigger than life and a great guy to work for. Forty years later I'm still following lessons he taught me.

Gary's intellect, enthusiasm, and foresight made him a tremendous force multiplier. Countless individuals, governments, and companies benefited, and will continue to benefit, from his influence. When I think of him, however, I think not only of his great career successes but also his kindness, his very personable and entertaining nature, and his gift for seeing both the big picture and the small details. There are so many everyday things about him that I will remember, such as his preference...

Gary truly was larger than life and gave us a beautiful example of how to live with gusto! It´s interesting how, even now, he continues to unite so many of us. His spirit lives on. I feel so fortunate to have called him my dear friend.

I had the great good fortune to meet Gary through his friendship with my husband Andy Horning. Along with Pete Haefner, the three met as fraternity brothers freshman year at Cal. and maintained their friendship for 50 years. Sadly, Andy passed away the day after Gary. RIP Gary. You are unforgettable. Sheree Hardrath