Garry House

George Germer House, fondly known as "Garry," passed away in the early hours of Sunday, December 29, 2024, in Parkland, Florida, at the age of 83 due to complications with his heart. Born on September 20, 1941, in Otsego County, New York, Garry was the only child of Burrill House and Laura Germer House. He spent his formative years in Richfield Springs, New York, graduating from Richfield Springs Central School in 1959.

Garry's academic journey began at Hamilton College, where he played football until a knee injury ended his athletic pursuits. After his sophomore year, he relocated to Michigan with the support and sponsorship of Watson and Marion Brown of Royal Oak. He continued his education at the General Motors Institute (GMI) in Flint, Michigan, where he became a member of the Phi Tau Alpha fraternity.

In 1964, Garry married Sabra Wilson House, and together they settled in Fenton, Michigan. They welcomed their daughter Ashley in 1967 and their son Todd in 1971. Shortly after their marriage, Garry entered the automotive industry by joining his father-in-law at Glenn Wilson Buick Olds GMC in Fenton. He eventually took over ownership of the dealership following his father-in-law's passing. Garry and Sabra divorced in 1977.

In 1981, Garry married Sheryl Hurd House and embraced her children-Chip, Putt, Kelley, and PJ-as part of his family. The couple made their home on Lake Fenton, where they enjoyed lake life summers. Garry was a prominent figure in Fenton's business community. He was a regular presence at the Fenton Hotel and was once honored as Fenton's Man of the Year. An exceptional skier, Garry frequently visited Steamboat Springs, Colorado, where he developed the "cowboy" persona that became a defining part of his identity.

In 1987, Garry sold his dealership and embarked on a new chapter as a consultant for automotive dealers. His expertise led him to join NCM Associates in 1994, where he worked for two decades. In 2011, he was named Director at NCM and tasked with founding the NCM Institute. There, he developed and delivered curriculum to thousands of retail automotive executives nationwide. Revered for his wisdom and insight into the industry, he earned the affectionate nickname "Yoda" of the retail automotive business. After leaving NCM in 2014, Garry continued his independent consulting practice, sharing wisdom with others until his passing.

After selling the dealership, Garry and Sheryl moved to Jonathan's Landing in Jupiter, Florida, where they resided for 35 years. They spent their days boating along the Intracoastal Waterway aboard "The Binnaman," walking through their neighborhood, and cherishing time with family. Following Sheryl's passing in April 2024, Garry relocated to Ashton Gardens in Parkland to be closer to PJ and Chip.

Garry is survived by his children: Chip Hurd, PJ Hurd, Todd House, and Ashley Conner; his grandchildren: Colin Hurd, Carly Hurd, Reagan Hurd, Reese Hurd, Kanna House, and William House; as well as his great-grandchildren: Remington and Faith.

Garry was a big man with an even bigger smile. He enjoyed life fully whether it was food, travel, or laughter. He loved his family dearly. And will be dearly missed.

In accordance with Garry's wishes, no formal funeral services will be held. To honor his memory, the family invites those who knew him to share stories or memories as a tribute to his remarkable life.

May Garry's memory bring comfort to all who had the privilege of knowing him.