Gary Louis Galbavi

Gary Louis Galbavi, age 85, of Perry, Michigan, passed away on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.

Gary was born on July 28, 1940, in Lansing, Michigan, to Louis and Antoinette Galbavi. He was a proud graduate of Perry High School. He went on to attend trade school through Lansing Community College while beginning a long and dedicated career with General Motors as a tool and die maker. Gary devoted more than 40 years to his work, earning the respect of his colleagues through his strong work ethic and mechanical expertise.

On August 22, 1959, Gary married the love of his life, Judy Ann Gerard, in Morrice, Michigan, sharing over five wonderful decades together before Judys passing in 2018. Gary was deeply committed to the Perry community. He served as a volunteer firefighter and was an active member of the Perry City Council. A staunch Democrat, Gary never failed to maintain his strong personal convictions. Known for his intelligence and hands-on skills, Gary was the person friends and family turned to when something needed fixing. Whether helping his father on the farm or lending his expertise on countless projects, he took pride in staying busy and figuring things out.

Outside of work and service, Gary had a passion for drag racing and was a member of the National Hot Rod Association. He was also a ham radio operator and enjoyed tinkering with computers, continuously striving to be a jack of all trades. Gary had a unique sense of humor, often joking about being a "procrastinator," even using the name in his CB handle. Those who knew him best understood his dedication, loyalty, and how he had his own way of showing up for others.

Gary is survived by his children, Michelle Burns, Marcelle (Kraig) Johnson, and Matthew Galbavi; his grandchildren, Jacob (Tara) Burns, Robert (Sarah) Burns, Jessica (Julian) Martinez, Brandon (Tricia) Galbavi, Emily (Collin) Demankowski, Adam (Breanna) Galbavi, Derek (Emma Clarke) Johnson, and Kameron (Erica Wilkinson) Johnson; 14 great-grandchildren; and his sisters, Pat McDevitt, Nancy (Gordon) Bogner, Victoria Freeman, Chris Sperry, Karen (Allan) Cornell, and Julie Galbavi and brother Robert (Amy) Galbavi. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judy Galbavi; his son, Michael Galbavi; his granddaughter, Samantha Galbavi; his parents, Louis and Antoinette Galbavi; his brothers, Tom Galbavi and James Galbavi; and his sister, Mary Loveall.

Cremation has taken place, and no services will be held at this time.

Memorial contributions may be made in Gary's name to the Shiawassee County Humane Society.

Memories and online condolences may be shared with the family at www.WatkinsFuneralHomes.com.