Garry Micheal Stringham

On an unusually warm October morning, in England, Garry Michael Stringham was born to a young Lynda Wells, (Stringham) after immigrating to the United States. As a small child, he spent years with his beloved Nana, Vera Eileen Wells. After he completed school and a stint in the U. S Marines, Garry settled down and had two sons, Drake and Clark. He loved them dearly, even when life pulled them in different directions. He was always so proud to be a father and bragged on them whenever he was given the chance.

Garry eventually established himself in Utah and started a Gutter/ Roof Construction company that thrived up until his passing. Despite never intending to stay in Utah permanently, his clients and his crews admired him; a guy in Wrangler jean shorts, Oakley's, "man bun" and a "do-rag" with combat boots out in snowy weather was sure to make an impression! He had such a presence when he entered the room, his beaming smile charmed even those who couldn't embrace his unique style. His boisterous voice took charge, and his language often peppered with expletives, but "f#*k" that was Garry! ... to know him was to love him.

Garry found himself a father a third time with a son Kenny, whom he adored. He became "Papa", perhaps his favorite title here on Earth. The sun rose and set on that kid. He married his current beautiful wife, Kirsten, who truly loved him & Kenny & stayed with him to the end embracing him as he left his physical body. Garry was blessed in numerous ways.

He enjoyed spending time with loved ones, as well as the occasional "dip" of tobacco, and sometimes even a pina colada, even though he was not much of a drinker, but if we could just find some place that would just make it the RIGHT way with vanilla ice cream! He enjoyed music, his pets, and he was intense with his need for the gym and claimed "training" helped keep him sane. He craved nice dinners, travel, and very nice cars that he rarely drove but nicely decorated his garage. He took immense pride in his ability to provide for his family. He always had a weakness for those in need, a "hero complex", if you will, and that sometimes became this superman's kryptonite. His legacy, however, would be his children, his strength, his leadership, and sense of community. He voiced his opinion and commanded respect. Young Garry would be proud of the man late Garry had become in his ability to forgive, grow, love and evolve. He expressed his love for God and knew he was going to a heavenly reward. His most tragic flaw was likely not putting his own mental and physical health as enough of a priority.

Garry was a natural born storyteller, and his stories will be shared for years to come. He was a large man with an even larger heart. He loved fiercely, believed in loyalty, and fought for what he thought was right. He will be remembered by all, missed by sooooo many and treasured forever by those of us who knew him best.

...To summarize a man like this in a few paragraphs is almost an insult to this complicated, multifaceted character that he was ...this father, husband, son, brother, boss, and friend has now found the peace he strived and struggled for so many years to gain. So, on a cool April afternoon in Utah, Garry moved on to his eternal adventure. Although gone too soon, he did always like to make a strong exit!

We love you, Gar, well done. He is now resting with Nana and his late brother "Chuck". Survived by his mother Lynda his sister Jan, wife Kirsten, his sons, Drake, Clark and Kenny, and his lifelong best friends, Andy Matyszewki, Pat McGettigan, Edgar Hernandez and cousin Steve Shields.

We will be having a small, private celebration of life for Garry from 6-7:00 p.m., Friday, May 2nd at Park City Gardens, 4459 UT-224, Park City, UT 84098. Please come prepared to share your favorite memories of our Garry. There will also be another service in Illinois at a later date. Condolences may be expressed at www.bergmortuary.com.