Garry Reese

Garry Wayne Reese, 77, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2025 from an extended illness, in Northville, Michigan. Born on April 7, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan, Garry lived a life filled with music, service, and deep devotion to his family.

A proud graduate of Visitation Catholic High School in Detroit, Class of 1966, Garry's passion for music began early. At just 14 years old, he started playing guitar in a band-a pursuit that would become a lifelong calling. Over the decades, he lent his talent to numerous groups including Common Ground, Wally Jackson and the Sundown Band, The Deltons, The Bombdogs, The TNT Band, Lane Alison Band, The Uniques, The Harlems and KJ Knight & the Nite Riders, among many others. His guitar work resonated with audiences across venues and generations.

In addition to his musical career, Garry served his country honorably as a clerk in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War from 1968 to 1970. Later in life, he continued to serve others through his work in healthcare. He worked as a cardiovascular technician at Anopolis Hospital as well as Dessert Springs and Mountain View Hospitals in Las Vegas. His dedication to patient care left a lasting impact on those he worked with and cared for. Garry retired in 2010 but continued to play music periodically for several years afterward.

Garry's life was rich with interests beyond work and music. A true car enthusiast, he took great pride in rebuilding his classic BMW 2002Tii, among many others-a labor of love that reflected his meticulous nature and appreciation for craftsmanship. His love of vinyl records spoke to his enduring connection to music's roots and history. He also had an adventurous spirit that led him around the world beginning with the military in Southeast Asia; he traveled extensively throughout the Caribbean and visited England, Ireland, and Italy-always eager to explore new cultures and landscapes.

Above all else, Garry cherished time spent with his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 34 years, Diane Reese; a loving father to Carla Striker and Susie (Mike) Muldoon; and a proud grandfather to Autumn Striker and Grace Striker. He also leaves behind his sister Joan Styes; nieces Amanda Hancox, Emily Crambell, Rachael Styes and great-niece and nephews; all of whom held special places in his heart.

Garry was preceded in death by his parents Wayne and Lenore Reese and by his brother-in-law Randy Styes.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Garry & Diane's home in Northville, MI 48167. Please contact the family at carlottastriker@yahoo.com for directions. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of a man whose warmth and talents touched so many lives.

Garry will be remembered as a great husband, father, grandfather-and above all-a man who lived fully with heart and harmony. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.