Gary Gatewood

THIS IS A COURTESY ANNOUNCEMENT FOR THE GATEWOOD FAMILY

Gary L. Gatewood, age 42 and a resident of St. Johns, Michigan, died in a tragic hunting accident on September 4, 2024. He was born on July 8, 1982, the son of Randel Gatewood and Karen (Hickman) Gatewood, in Martin, Tennessee, where he grew up.

Gary was a dedicated and beloved husband, father, and friend whose presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Born with a love for the outdoors, Gary embraced life with a passion for hunting, fishing, and golfing. He was known not only for his love of the wilderness but for his dedication to his family and his career. Gary was a Senior Gas Field Leader with Consumers Energy, where he worked for 10 years, and his commitment to his job was evident in everything he did. In his own words, he "loved being a boss," taking great pride in leading his team.

On September 5, 2015, Gary married Katie Smith, the love of his life, at the Emerald Golf Course. Together, they added to their family three wonderful children who, along with CJ and Lukas, were the center of his world. Whether at home or in the community, Gary was the first to lend a helping hand. Known for his quick wit, famous one-liners, and unmatched sarcasm, he was the quintessential "pot stirrer," never missing a chance to get the last word in.

Gary loved playing and hosting Cornhole, frequently playing at the VFW Post, in local tournaments, and hosting games at his home. He could often be found grilling or smoking meats for family and friends, sharing laughs, stories, and plenty of good-natured banter. He loved football, especially the Bengals and the Vols. Whether stirring the pot or serenading everyone with karaoke, Gary brought life to every room he entered.

Above all, Gary adored his wife and children. He was a loving and devoted husband and father, and his family was truly his pride and joy.

In addition to his beloved wife Katie, he leaves children, Colton James "CJ" Gatewood (Katelyn Webb), Lukas Rivers, Kambria Loren "Sharkie" Gatewood, Charleigh "Peanut" Rae Gatewood, and Khloe "Lo-bear" Lynn Gatewood; granddaughter, Nova; his parents, Randel Gatewood and Karen Gatewood; brother, Chris Smith (Ruth Sanchez); mother and father-in-law, Lorann and Tom Smith; sister-in-law, Rachael (Garrett) Libbra and brother-in-law, Luke Smith; aunts and uncles, Donna, Linda, Bobby and Richard; nieces and nephews, Wyatt, Parker, Trey, Ryder, Quinn, and Brooks, his many colleagues at Consumer's Energy, his cornhole community, many other dear friends, and his dogs, Roxy Ann and Gracie Lou.

He was preceded in death by four angel babies, his grandma, Maurine "Granny Grunt Grunt" Capra-Hickman, and dog Fowler "Mr. Man".

Visitation will be held at McGeehan Funeral Home, Keck-Coleman Chapel, 1500 Waterford Parkway, St. Johns, on Sunday, September 8, from 12-8PM. A Funeral Service will be held at the funeral home on Monday, September 9, at 11AM with Pastor Andy Croel officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Rest Cemetery.  Following services, a gathering will be held at the St. Johns City Park Main Pavilion.  In lieu of flowers, teddy bears or WubbaNubs may be brought in support of Charleigh's Bags for Bears.