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BORN
1948
DIED
2024
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Gary Croce Obituary
Gary was born in McAllen, Texas, April 27, 1948 to Anthony F. Della Croce, Sr. and Sara A. Della Croce. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Anthony, and son Gary, Jr.
He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Ann Langford Della Croce of McAllen; his daughters Rachel Vangsnes (Evan) of Georgetown, Texas; Gwyn F. Della Croce of Austin; Michelle Spence (Jim) of McAllen; and Lori Della Croce of Dallas. Gary is also survived by his sister Mary Lou Fehr (Bruce) of Houston and his grandchildren Trenton, Edie, Basil, and Shiloh Vangsnes of Georgetown; Shana Maldonado of McAllen and Ryan Barela of Houston; and great- granddaughter Helena Cervera of McAllen. He is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, and other extended family members.
Gary was a member of Storehouse Community Church, where he was a leader and mentor for the young men in the community, enjoying conversations about his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and offering prayer freely. His favorite scripture was Psalm 91. He was also passionate about being a Children's Leader in Bible Study Fellowship for many years. Born and raised in McAllen, Gary managed and owned a family business, The Executive Steakhouse, a local favorite restaurant for many years. A dedicated health insurance broker, Gary served clients throughout the Valley for 35 years. He adored his role as Santa Claus for 10 years, lifting the spirits of children and families in children's hospitals, schools, churches, and non-profit organizations. He started his Santa Claus career at Jenny Hollis Photography and continued delighting childrens' hearts and bringing smiles to their faces year after year.
The family extends our love and gratitude to the people who have cared for Gary for the past two years;
Dr. Ashukem, Dr. Arain, Dr. Owens, and everyone at Edinburg Regional, McAllen Medical, and Hermann-Memorial. We are forever grateful for the love and lifesaving care shown Gary.
The family suggest that friends make memorial contributions to C.A.M.P. University in McAllen (www.campuniversity.org) in lieu of flowers.
A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at 10am at Kreidler Funeral Home in McAllen.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gary Croce
Carol Ann Dixon
May 31, 2024
I think of Gary and you often , Ann. Sorry I haven´t seen you recently to hug your neck.
Bill Gray
May 2, 2024
Our family moved to Hibiscus St. in 1962. We became acquainted with
Mrs. Della Croce, Anthony, Gary and Mary Lou shortly afterward. They model citizens. We´d sometimes play football in neighbors´ yards and Gary would often join in.
I saw Gary at Baptist Temple Church occasionally. I´m very thankful that he made a serious commitment in serving our savior Jesus Christ.
Ramiro & Gloria Caceres
April 22, 2024
Our sincere condolences to the family. What an honor to have know Gary throughout the years. God Bless the entire family.
Baudilia Rodriguez
April 21, 2024
Thinking of such a wonderful dad and husband. Rest in peace. My thoughts are with the family. Gwyn thinking of you at this time. Your dad always visited you in my third grade classroom when I had you as a student. My thoughts are with you and your family. Mrs. B. Rodriguez your 3rd grade teacher
Vackar Family
April 20, 2024
Rest in peace, sweet Gary. Your gentle, kind spirit will never be forgotten. God Bless
Dean Canty, Ph.D.
April 20, 2024
a nicer person never came my way; God bless him and the family.....sincere, caring people......Gary will be missed......
John & Kay Hunnicutt
April 18, 2024
John and I send our condolences to Ann and the children. Fond memories of time spent together iin Sunday School Classes at BT.
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