Gary was born in Pueblo, Colorado a few short years ago and is a third generation Coloradoan. His Mother’s family immigrated to Southern Colorado from the old country at the beginning of the twentieth century.
He received his business education in Southern Colorado and worked in retail management for over 35 years in various locations in Colorado. Gary is presently employed as a manager and Tax Specialist for H&R Block and is also an Associate Broker for Werner Realty Inc.
His Masonic career began in 1991 when he petitioned Silver State Lodge #95 to receive the degrees of Masonry. He was raised a Master Mason in Silver State Lodge in May 1992 and also declared proficient that same month. He was appointed to the line in 1993 and served as Worshipful Master of Silver State Lodge in 1999. He is also the current Treasurer of Silver State Lodge, and has held that position for seven years. He also serves on the C&C Fund, Posting Committee, and Membership Committee for the lodge.
He joined OES Chapter Adah #34 in 1993 and Donna and Gary served as Worthy Matron and Patron of the Chapter during the year 1998-1999.
He joined the Scottish Rite, Southern Colorado Consistory in December 1992 and he has participated in numerous degrees during this period. He served as Commander of Kadosh in 1998, worked in the makeup department since 1993 and is presently director of the Makeup Department, and participates in the 14th degree as Venerable Master and General Washington in the Traitor. He was honored with the 33° IGH in October 2009.
He has been an active Shriner since the date he joined Al Kaly Shrine in December 1992. He was president of the KalyKlowns in the years 1995 and 1996 and has been the secretary of that unit since 2004. He is also a member of the Oriental Band, trying to get the unit active again. He is Secretary of the Shabab Unit. He was membership chairman in 2008, served as an Aide seven different times, and has been a Hospital Rep since 1999. He was elected into the line of Al Kaly Shriners in 2008. During this time he has been involved with several fundraisers and met many new friends.
He has been married to Donna since 1976. He has four children, two sons and two daughters as well as four grandchildren.