Gary Kane

1943 - 2025

Gary Kane

Gary Paul Kane, devoted father, partner, and lifelong advocate for social justice, passed away peacefully at home on January 13, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on February 4, 1943, in San Francisco, CA, Gary spent seven years at the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned his undergraduate degree in economics and his law degree. The university's atmosphere of intellectual openness and social activism shaped his deep social conscience and sparked his lifelong commitment to community service.

After earning his law degree, Gary's career was dedicated to improving housing opportunities and advocating for underprivileged communities. In the 1960s, he worked with the Sacramento Redevelopment Agency, revitalizing struggling neighborhoods and ensuring local employment for residents. He later helped draft the federal Section 8 housing regulations, which provided rent subsidies for low- and moderate-income families.

In 1981, Gary moved to Raleigh, NC, to head the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency, where he helped finance 20,000 housing units and pioneered sophisticated bond-financing techniques. After moving to Greensboro, he continued his work in housing and real estate at Weaver Investment Company, overseeing large mixed-use developments and contributing to Greensboro's growth.

Gary also served as president of the Greater Greensboro Builders Association in the 1990s, where he worked to make the organization more inclusive and community-focused, with an emphasis on giving back. His efforts helped build nearly 50 homes for families, providing stability and dignity through homeownership.

Gary's children, Katherine Ruth Kane and Sophia "Sophie" Parham Turner Kane (Carolyn Hamilton), were a great source of pride and joy in his life. Sophie and Katherine were raised with his former wife, Betty Turner, in Greensboro, NC. He is also survived by his partner, Nina Allen, with whom he shared a loving relationship, moving to Charlotte to be with her during the final year of his life.

Gary was a man of deep faith and a proud Mason. He was known for his sweet tooth (especially for ice cream and chocolate), his love of Disney (which he instilled in his daughters), and his deep affection for those closest to him. A man who championed fairness and equality, Gary was known for his warmth, humor, and intellectual curiosity. He leaves behind a legacy of love, integrity, and a life well-lived.

A service to honor Gary's life will be held at Morning Star Lutheran Church in Matthews, North Carolina, 12509 Idlewild Rd, Matthews, NC 28105, at 11 a.m., on January 21, 2025. The family will receive visitors starting at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Community Housing Solutions, 1031 Summit Ave Ste 1E-1, Greensboro, NC 27405, tel. 336-676-6986, in his honor.