Gary W. Mace

Mace, Gary - of Montrose, age 81, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at his residence. Funeral services will be held at 11AM Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at the O'Guinn Family Funeral Home. Pastor Dan Shinabarger to officiate. The family will receive visitors on Tuesday from 5PM until 8PM and on Wednesday from 10AM until the time of service. Memorial contributions may be made to New Covenant Church.
Gary was born on April 27, 1943, in Youngstown, Ohio, to the late Dale and Elizabeth (Reiter) Mace. He lived a life rich in love, laughter, and service, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know him. Gary's educational journey began at Spring Arbor College, leading to a bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University and a master's degree from Michigan State University. He dedicated 30 years of his life to Birch Run Schools, where he inspired countless students as a passionate industrial arts teacher. On June 12, 1965, Gary married the love of his life, Mary Morse. Together, they created a home filled with warmth and cherished memories. As an active member of New Covenant Church for 55 years, Gary's commitment to his faith was evident in every aspect of his life. He joyfully drove the bus for Sunday school and youth groups, taught Sunday school and worked on numerous mission trips.
Gary was creative in photography, building, furniture-making, gardening, and re-creating antique wooden wagons and sleighs. His greatest talent was in fine woodworking, dedicating countless hours to meticulous wood turnings and carvings. His generosity shone through as he helped friends in Light and Life Park, Florida, by building a workshop to teach older adults his beloved craft. A lover of travel, Gary ventured across Europe multiple times, and his 2012 journey to the Holy Land was the dream of a lifetime. Welcoming by spirit, he and Mary opened their home to exchange students from three continents. Gary's unwavering belief in kindness and his willingness to lend a helping hand defined his character. He was a source of quiet strength and consistency and loved his family unconditionally. If there is butter pecan ice cream in heaven, he's ready to share it with us all.
Surviving are: Loving wife of 59 years, Mary Mace: Children: Doug (Eadie) Mace, Delynn (Christopher) Fairbanks, Derek (Karise) Mace; Exchange students: Christine Frankman, Lise Haniveg, Wakako McDaniels, Sanna Takala, and Armin Rott; Grandchildren: Alex (Mackenzie) Mace, Rob Mace, Macen Qualls, Kate Mace, Mia (Zach) Lower, Julia Mace, Rene (Michael) Taylor, Evelyn Mace, Caleb Fairbanks, Mickinly Qualls, Meredith Mace, Maxwell Qualls; He was blessed with 6 great grandchildren and one on the way : Brother, Keith (Becky) Mace; Sister, Cheryl Mace; Sister-in-law, Patricia Mace; 10 Nieces. He is preceded in death by his parents: Dale and Elizabeth Mace; Brother, Ron Mace.
O'Guinn Family Funeral Home
Clio Chapel
810.686.5070