Gary William Brockman

Gary William Brockman, 81, of Toledo, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, November 14, at Hospice of Northwest Ohio. Gary was born on June 27, 1944, in Evansville, Indiana, to Charles and Dorthea Brockman.

Gary is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Jennie (Walden); his three children, Heather (Steve) Guckenberger, Amber Bernal, and Kevin Brockman; and his five beloved grandsons: Dakota (Sydney) Brockman, Garret Brockman, Jordan (Isabelle) Brockman, Iric (Anna) Zellar-Bernal, and Julian Bernal. He was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his first great-grandchild, expected any day. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Dorthea Brockman, and his Aunt Olivia Hoffmann.

Gary married the love of his life, Jennie, in 1967. He graduated from the University of Cincinnati a year later with a degree in architecture. Among his professional accomplishments, one he was especially proud of was his work on the NASA facility in Sandusky, Ohio.

A man who valued gratitude and togetherness, Gary cherished time spent with family. Having everyone under one roof for the holidays brought him immense joy. His five grandsons were the pride of his life—something clearly reflected in his extensive Air Force wardrobe, worn in support of his two Airmen grandsons and their service to our country.

Gary devoted himself wholeheartedly to providing for his family. He made countless sacrifices, always ensuring that not only were their needs met, but that many of their wants were, too. He was always there to support anything and everything his family was involved in and only said, “No.” to Jennie once in 58 years! His happiest moments were spent caring for others, and his unwavering presence offered comfort and stability to all who relied on him.

Gary’s deep faith shaped his life and the lives of those around him. He taught his family to love God, to love others, and to pray in both joy and hardship. His kindness and generosity flowed naturally; he helped simply because it was the right thing to do and because he cared deeply for others. Throughout his life, he served faithfully in his church—as an usher, a Deacon, and in many unseen roles that humbly honored God and supported the community he loved.

He will be remembered for his quick quips, dry humor, and his entertainingly eccentric ties and socks, as well as his love for Ohio State and Bengals football, napping through NASCAR races, tiramisu, and Skyline Chili with a cold rootbeer.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at the Walter Funeral Home, 4653 Glendale Avenue, on Friday, November 28, 2025. The family will receive visitors at 1:00 p.m., with the service beginning at 2:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Heart Association, the American Cancer Society, or Hospice of Northwest Ohio. Alternatively, you may honor Gary’s memory by sharing a special meal with your loved ones—and ordering the best dessert available!