Gary B. Garretson

1949 - 2025

Gary B. Garretson
Born: May 12, 1949 in Illinois
Died: April 10, 2025 in Florida
Gary Bennet Garretson of Orlando, Florida, passed away on April 10th, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Cremation rites have been accorded. Funeral services were held on May 2nd at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Orlando, with Interment at the Queen of Angels Cemetery Columbarium on May 3rd.
He is survived by his loving wife, Donna (Miller) Garretson of Orlando; his daughter, LeAnne (Tom) Garretson-Tran; and his son, Brad (Jackie) Garretson. He also leaves behind five grandchildren: Brandon Garretson, Reilly Tran, Madison Tran, Tyler Tran, and Kendall Tran. His siblings-Crystal Fackler, Paul Garretson, Denny Garretson, Cheryl Stanbaugh, and Andy Garretson-also survive him. This list of loved ones would not be complete without mentioning his extended family including his family by marriage, his cousins and his many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by both of his parents, his loving stepmother Jerrylee, and his beloved daughter, Jennifer Garretson.
Born in Streator, Illinois, on May 12, 1949, Gary was the son of Joyce Klein Foltz and Charles F. Garretson. He was raised in Cornell, Illinois, where he attended both grade school and high school. He and Donna moved to Florida in 1981. A devoted husband and father, Gary raised his family in Wellington, Florida, before relocating to Orlando in 1994 to remain close to his children. He retired from Universal Studios in 2011 and eventually settled near the beach to enjoy his later years. Gary was passionate about bowling, was a loyal cubs fan, and he was a beloved member of his poker club. Yet, his greatest joy came from spending time with family and friends. He embraced his role as a devoted husband, loving father, and the proud "Papa" to his grandchildren.
Gary will be remembered for his resilience and unwavering spirit. He met each challenge with quiet strength, never complaining, and always accepting life as it came. His optimism and positive outlook touched everyone around him, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.