Gary Robert Jankowski

Gary Robert Jankowski passed away on August 12, 2025 in Novi, Michigan. Born on July 29, 1947 to William Bernard Jankowski and Frances Louise (Steinhorst) Jankowski, Gary was the middle of three children.

Gary grew up on Detroit's west side during the 1950s and 60s, a period he often reminisced about fondly. He graduated from Cody High school in 1965 and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Michigan in 1974. It was during his college years that he met his future wife, Sally Stevens. Gary and Sally were united in marriage on November 23, 1974 and were fortunate to have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this past November.

Professionally, Gary began his career as a draftsman before finding his true calling as an entrepreneur. In the 1980s he founded Manufacturing Directives, Inc, a company specializing in robotic components used in manufacturing and assembly. His ingenuity and friendly personality resulted in a product that became a staple in every Ford and General Motors assembly plant in North America.

Gary had many interests, most of which were tied to his happy childhood memories and love of nostalgia. First and foremost, he was a model train enthusiast, always on the hunt for pieces to add to his collection. But he was just as content to talk trains with his friends, visit their collections and attend train shows.

Like most men of his generation, he had an affinity for the fast, beautiful muscle cars of his youth, particularly those that regularly came into his teenage home-away-from-home Daly Drive-In. When the muscle car craze returned in the 90s he was heavily involved in the hobby. He was a stickler for the correct wheels, tires and subtle details and he enthusiastically spoke of the cars that achieved his level of Northwest Detroit correctness.

Retirement brought peaceful and lovely years for Gary and Sally. Gary discovered a love for cooking and took over the kitchen, affectionately planning menus, shopping for ingredients and trying new recipes. He maintained regular contact with his many friends. He had a close relationship with his brother, Dick, and sister, Gail, and spoke with them several times each week.

Gary's family was the cornerstone of his life, and he leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. He is survived by his devoted wife, Sally; siblings Richard Jankowski and Gail (Mike) Horback; nephews, Michael (Erin) Horback and Jeremy (Angie) Jankowski; grand nieces and nephew, Gabby, Avery, Haley, Harper, and Weston; close family friend, Larry Habarth; and beloved cats Hannah, Noah, Jett, Tiffany, and Bonnie. Gary was preceded in death by his late parents, William "Kelly" and Frances Jankowski; parents-in-law George and Genevieve Stevens; sisters-in-law, Judith Jankowski and Mary Haag; and niece, Michelle Palgut.

Gary's departure has left an indelible mark on the hearts of those he touched. His legacy of love, kindness and an interesting life well-lived will continue to inspire and comfort his family and friends. As we bid farewell to Gary, we celebrate a life that was full of joy, achievements and the unwavering love of a man who was truly one of a kind.

The family will receive guests on Tuesday, August 19 from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM with a sharing of memories ceremony at 5:00 PM at the Sawyer-Fuller Funeral Home, 2125 12 Mile Road, Berkley (two blocks west of Woodward Avenue).

Graveside committal service will be 12:00 Noon on Wednesday, August 20 at Glen Eden Memorial West, 35667 Eight Mile Rd, Livonia.

Memorial contributions would be appreciated to Do Only Good Animal Rescue.