Gary Mashia

Gary Glenn Mashia (61), of Essex Jct. VT a beloved husband, father, papa, brother & friend, passed away on January 28, 2026, at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, following a short illness, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on March 26th, 1964, in Burlington, VT to William Oliver Mashia and Beverly Joyce Irish. Gary Graduated from C.V.U.H.S in 1982. Gary began his career at Lantman's IGA in Hinesburg at the age of 16 working for Doug and Betty Lantman, then for Brian Busier and after Brians passing he worked for Brians sons Bryce and Kyle Busier. This was Gary's only job he had, and he was there for an astounding 45 years as he was a very dedicated employee.

Known for his sense of humor and infectious smile which you rarely saw him without. He was a kind, generous and caring man who knew and befriended everyone!

On September 17th, 1988, Gary married his high school sweetheart Pam Vezina. They shared 32 years together before divorcing for 7 years and reunited with each other until his death. A true test of soul mates.

Gary was very proud of his children and grandchildren and loved them very much. He especially loved his role as their papa and whenever talking about his grandchildren you could tell he felt complete.

One of Garys passions was spending his free time on Lake Champlain with his family on his prize procession boat "Last Chance". By the end of summer Gary would be as tanned as they come as he could never get enough sun. He also would take weekly drives to casinos in NH and NY with his brother Michael as he loved playing slots.

His family is so very proud of him for his will to choose a healthier path in life as he decided to become sober in 2024. Gary accomplished this part of his life all on his own with the outpouring support from his family and friends with no rehab intervention. This was a huge milestone for him, as most of you know how much Gary loved to drink. He was able to enjoy his new life of sobriety for a year and a half with 100% success while inspiring others to better their lives as well.

Gary has left us all with such a void in our hearts since his passing that no one will ever be able to replace. His legacy and story will forever live on as he was an unforgettable human.

He leaves behind his family, the love of his life Pam Mashia, children Lauren Gilbert (partner Ben Whitcomb) & Tanner Mashia (partner Mariah Litchfield) his three beautiful grandchildren Wyatt & Wrenna Gilbert and Bryson Mashia along with his two grand dogs Duke & Cooper all of whom will miss him more than words can say. His is also survived by his 6 siblings, Cheryl Esty (Tom), Michael Mashia (Theresa), Ricky Mashia, Mark Mashia (Caroline), Laurie Meyer (Chris), Allen Mashia (Marylin) his brother in laws Ralph Vezina III (partner Jared Covell), Craig Hayford (Lisa), Chad Vezina, Sister in law Heather Vezina, Tracy Fisher (Ricky) along with and his many nieces and nephews who he loved dearly and had special bonds with each of them. Tracey, Matt, Erin, Jordan, Brooke, Jason, Eric, Natalie, Carlie, Stacey, Alexis, Justin, Christopher, Carter, Calvin, Abigail, Tiffaney, Steffaney, Brittaney, Whittaney, Ricky, Ameriah, Gavin, Aiden, Austin, Mak, Tyler & many cousins and great nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind a few of his very close friends who he valued greatly. You all know who you are. We would also like to take a moment to acknowledge the amazing staff at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center for devotion, compassion and support through Garys illness and time spent there.

He is predeceased by his parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, mother and father-in-law, a few close friends, his sister-in-law Lisa Mashia, and niece Izzy. He finally reunited his beloved boxers (Buck, Hooch & Grand pup Oakley).

This void will not be filled until we meet again my love, fly high and continue to shine down on all of us.

There will be a celebration of life in Garys honor on his birthday on March 26th, 2026, at the Buck Ridge Barn 8470 Route 116 Hinesburg, VT 05461 from 12pm- 4pm. Parking will be limited due to weather, so carpooling is strongly encouraged.

In lieu of flowers make donations to The American Cancer Society (P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741) and or The Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation (P.O. Box 860970 Minneapolis, MN 55486-0970)