Gary Warren Echard

Gary W. Echard, age 82, entered the loving arms of his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at his home, with Gig at his side and surrounded by the love of his family.
Gary was born on February 8, 1943, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the son of the late Paul W. and Helen C. (McElroy) Echard. He attended Penn Hills High School and graduated with the Class of 1961. Gary went on to earn his bachelor's degree in psychology from Geneva College, graduating in 1965. He applied his academic training to a successful career in Human Resources consulting, from which he retired in 2008.
As a teenager, Gary earned the rank of Eagle Scout and was awarded the Distinguished Citizen Award for heroism after rescuing a nine-year-old boy from a creek following a sledding accident.
On November 25, 1967, Gary married his soulmate, Mary Theresa (Kormuth) Echard. Together they shared more than 52 years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, faith, and family. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2017 before Mary's passing on June 18, 2020.
Gary served in the United States Navy, an experience he carried with quiet pride. His time in the Navy sparked a lifelong appreciation for the open water and helped shape his love of boating-a passion that stayed with him long after his service ended.
Away from service and responsibility, Gary found his greatest joy on the open water. From the 1980s through the early 2000s, Lake Erie became a second home to him and his family. Any chance he had, Gary was at the lake-boating, relaxing, and creating memories that would last a lifetime. He and Mary also shared a love of travel by water, cruising together through the British Virgin Islands and along the ocean off Baja California going whale watching.
Gary was a classically trained guitarist and played music throughout his life. He performed with friends in a band called The Mountain Men, which took them to New York City for an appearance on Ted Mack's Original Amateur Hour. Music remained an important part of his life, and he continued to play for his family in the years that followed.
Gary's life was defined by family, shared experiences, and simple pleasures. Whether navigating a boat across Lake Erie, strumming a guitar with his family, or traveling with Mary, he lived fully and left behind a legacy of memories that will continue to echo in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him.
Left to cherish his memory are his loving children: Kari (Eric) Mackenbach, Brian Echard, and Kelly (Tonia) Peoples; and his grandchildren: Zoe, Jon, Caroline, and Daniel.
Visitation will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Snyder Funeral Homes, Denzer Chapel, 360 E. Center St., Marion, Ohio 43302. A Funeral Mass will follow at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, 251 N. Main St., Marion, Ohio 43302.
Snyder Funeral Homes of Marion are honored to serve Gary's family. Online condolences may be expressed by visiting www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com