Gary Allen Sova

Gary Allen Sova, 88, of Fowlerville, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2025. He was born September 6, 1936, in Cheboygan, MI, to the late Ephriam and Lauretta Sova, and grew up surrounded by the beauty of Northern Michigan. A proud graduate of Cheboygan High School's Class of 1955, Gary went on to serve his country in the United States Air Force, stationed in Biloxi, Mississippi.

On October 22, 1960, Gary married the love of his life, Ruth, in Detroit. The two met at a party-legend has it that Gary was sitting on a fireplace mantel when they struck up a conversation. They shared a dance that night, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Gary was a man of many talents. He loved woodworking, especially crafting patriotic pieces. The outdoors called to him-whether it was hunting, snowmobiling, four-wheeling, or simply cutting firewood. At 77 years old, he proudly took down the biggest buck of his life, a feat that took more than a few bullets and a little extra effort, much to the amusement of his family. Gary was someone who simply couldn't say no to a cause. According to the local postman, Gary received more mail than anyone else in town-because if an organization sent him a letter, chances were, he'd send back a check. But perhaps his greatest joy came from helping others. Known for his willingness to lend a hand, Gary would go out of his way for anyone in need.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 65 years, Ruth; children Doug (Lisa) Sova, Mark (Laurie) Sova, Matt (Sheila) Sova, Denise (John) Dragonov, and Brad (Amy) Sova; grandchildren Kristina Sova, Kevin (Christine) Sova, Renee (Kyle) Bowman, John (Sicilee) Dragonov, Jessica (Jake) Baibak, Jordan (Reed) Wilmot, Luke Sova, Brandie Sova, Mitchell Sova, Shaw Sova, Mason Sova, Emma Sova, and Cole Sova; step-grandchildren, Bruce (Rachel) Croft and Nichole Croft; six great-grandchildren; and 3 step great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Louis, Hazel, Leonard, Mabel, Alfred, Roy, Kenneth, Jean, and Richard; and two children, Renee and Jean Sova.

A visitation will be held for Gary on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at 10:00 AM, at St. Agnes Catholic Church. 855 E Grand River Ave, Fowlerville, MI 48836. A Mass of Christian burial will begin at 11:00 AM. Interment immediately followed at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Fowlerville, MI.

Memorial contributions may be made in Gary's name to The Wounded Warrior Project or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at www.WatkinsFuneralHomes.com