Gary M. Ferguson

Gary Mitchell Ferguson, 85, passed away April 27, 2024, at his home in Pinellas Park, Florida. He was born February 4, 1939, to Linnie Beatrice (Holley) Martin and John Earle Ferguson.

Gary attended St. Rose of Lima and Hastings Area Schools, graduating with the Class of 1958. He had fond memories and often reminisced on times spent with friends. He continued his education, becoming a Journeyman Tool and Die Maker, and his employment included Hastings Manufacturing, Oldsmobile Lansing, Eaton Corporation Battle Creek and, finally, retiring from GM Stamping Plant in Wyoming, Michigan. Gary was proud of his accomplishments.

Valentines Day, 1959, Gary married his sweetheart, Patricia Jane Hart, who preceded him in death in April 1996.  They had four children, Sandra (Mateo) Chavez, William (Rita) Ferguson, Julie (Jeffrey) LaJoye, and Stacy (Jim) Peck, all of whom survive. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. Sadly, he was preceded in death by his beloved grandson, James (Bus) Peck.

We will remember dad and grandpa as a man who loved his children and grandchildren, as well as his many dogs, cats and grandpets. Dad was a fairly quiet man, unless you knew him well, and he had nicknames for all those he loved. He had a good sense of humor, and was a great cook, too.

Gary was an avid auto racing and football fan; his all-time favorite driver was Gordon Johncock. He enjoyed NFL and attending his grandsons' football games and wrestling matches.

Preceding him in death were his mother and father, his wife Patricia, grandson James Peck, and stepbrother Fred Martin.

Besides his children and grandchildren, Gary is survived by his sister Pat (Larry) Tripp, nieces and nephews, and special stepsister Jackie Martin Cosgrove (Gil) Douglas.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the MS Society or Animal Shelter of your choice.

Visitation will be Sunday, May 19, 2024, 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, May 20, 2024, at 11:00 AM at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 805 S Jefferson St, Hastings, MI 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net.