Gary Bruce Bird, age 76 of Patoka, passed away peacefully in his home on August 4, 2023. Gary was born on October 26, 1946, in Goodland, Kansas to the late Everett and Alice Bird. Gary married Pamela (Irby) Bird on December 20, 1969. In addition to his wife of over 53 years, he is survived by his son Brian (Julie) and daughter Shelli (Rick), along with grandchildren Connor (Lauren), Dylan (Caitlin), Paige (David), Marissa, and Jared. Gary was the oldest of six and is also survived by his siblings Janet (Gene), Steve (Louise), Tom (Cinda), Mark (Kym), and Troy.
Gary was a veteran of the Vietnam War and proudly served in the United States Navy. His career began in the Kansas and Oklahoma oil industry where he worked for Mobil Oil, which eventually brought him to Patoka as a foreman. Gary later left the company to pursue a career owning and managing a Massey Ferguson and later a Yamaha dealership. After his self-retirement, he chose to continue in the workforce at Boulder Chevrolet until his second retirement.
Gary’s greatest love was his family. He enjoyed spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren, watching sports, boating, hunting, fishing, golfing, snowmobiling, and playing cards and board games. Gary previously coached various youth sports and played an integral role in building the Patoka Little League and community baseball field. Even with his health declining in recent years, his wit and humor remained.
Military rites, of a 21 Gun Salute will be accorded by the Patoka American Legion Post 543 on Sunday, September 3, 2023, at 2 p.m. CST at the Patoka American Legion at 405 North Washington Street. A celebration of life service will follow. Casual attire is requested.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Patoka Ambulance Services or Patoka American Legion. Online condolences and memories of Gary may be shared with the family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.
