Gary L. Gagne

With heavy hearts, the family of Gary L. "Gunner" Gagne announces his peaceful passing on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at the age of 71, after a brief illness. Surrounded by his loving family, Gary left this world having built a life of hard work, generosity, and devotion to family and community.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at the Louisville Volunteer Fire Department from 12:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. All are welcome to join celebrating Gary's life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Louisville Volunteer Fire Department, a cause close to Gary's heart, or to a charity of your choice.

Born on October 13, 1953, in Chase Mills, Gary was the eldest son of Ernest and Angeline (Jenkins) Gagne. A proud graduate of Madrid-Waddington High School, Class of 1971, he quickly became known for his skill and tireless work ethic. His career in the autobody industry began at the Louisville Garage, where he honed the trade that became his lifelong passion. In 1984, he took over Corky's Collision, where he worked with pride until his recent retirement. While his hands shaped countless vehicles, Gary's true mark was left in the hearts of the people he served, the colleagues he worked alongside, and his trusted friend Chris Hutchins, whose loyalty and friendship meant so much to him throughout the years.

In his younger years, Gary was a devoted member of the Louisville Volunteer Fire Department. Beyond answering the call of service, he competed as part of the firematics drill team, helping set records in the North Country-a testament to his leadership, teamwork, and determination. Always eager to give back, Gary supported numerous community organizations, including the soap box derby and local little league teams.

An avid outdoorsman, Gary found joy in hunting at camp and fishing along the St. Lawrence River, even earning a spot on the cover of New York Sportsmen. He was a founding member of the Prospect Hunting Club in Waddington, New York. He loved sharing his catch-whether perch, walleye, or venison-with family and friends. His generosity, big-hearted presence, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Above all, Gary's greatest devotion was to his family. He leaves behind his four daughters: Christine (Jared) Archambeault, Evette Gagne (Ryan Herbstler), Amanda Gagne, and Autum (Izak) Smith. He will also be deeply missed by his grandchildren: Lexi, Logan, Lillie, Liam, Skylar, and Zane. Gary is survived by his siblings Todd (Susie), Ted (Carol), Tim (Christine), Lorna (David), Marsha, Lynn, and Brenda, as well as many extended family members and friends. He also shared his later years with his loving companion, Esther Reid.

Gary was predeceased by his parents, Ernest and Angeline Gagne; sisters Lori Louie, Bonnie Lapree, and Sue Ellen Gagne (in infancy); and his longtime companion, Diane St. Thomas.

Gary's legacy of hard work, big love, service, and devotion to family will live on in all who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace.