Gary Edward Hughes, 90, went to the arms of Jesus on the morning of August 1, 2024 after a brief illness while visiting family in Loveland, CO. He is now in heaven with his beloved wife Shirley Hughes. He was born May 31, 1934 to George E. Hughes and Wilma Hughes (Schooley), in Pratt, KS, where he grew up and graduated from Pratt High School. He met the love of his life working at a fly-swatter factory in Pratt.
Gary married Shirley I. Reedy on January 24, 1954. They were married 68 years and 7 months, a testimony to their enduring love and commitment. Together they built a life filled with love, joy, and support until her passing. In her last years, he cared for her when she was sick. He was a devoted husband and would do anything for her. Their love for each other was undeniable in all they did, even up to her last breath.
Over the years, he worked in plumbing in Pratt, KS, and heating and air conditioning in Loveland, CO. Gary was a well-respected member of the community. He retired as part-owner in Gibson Heating and Air Conditioning in 1994 and then moved to Williamsburg, KS.
While in Loveland, he made many memories with family at the lake, camping, backpacking, and hosting family gatherings. He was involved in bowling, fishing, the camping club and horseshoe pitching. Gary was instrumental in establishing the horseshoe pits in Loveland and the surrounding area, and he spearheaded the horseshoe pitching league in Loveland. He participated in the challenge and camaraderie of black power sport shooting competitions where he would use muzzleloading firearm techniques that date back to historical times. Gary did well in competition and won several awards.
He was an avid fisherman throughout his life, fishing locally and taking several fishing trips to Alaska, to Great Slave and Great Bear Lake in the Northwest Territories, as well as Lac La Ronge in Saskatchewan. He hosted an annual fish fry in Williamsburg, catching hundreds and hundreds of fish. Every year he would jokingly say, "This is it. I'm not doing this next year." (He just recently celebrated his 90th birthday with a fish fry.)
After retirement, Gary continued to pursue fishing and loved hunting (deer, pheasant, and quail). Additionally, he enjoyed other past-times like woodworking, gardening, and golfing. He became actively involved in the community booster club, supporting local groups and activities, and specifically providing school supplies for local children. He was a member of the United Methodist Church of Williamsburg. Gary's presence was cherished by all who knew him. His sense of humor, kind heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering integrity left a lasting impression. He'll be missed by family, friends, and the community he loved.
He is survived by son Gary W. Hughes (Grace) of Cheyenne, WY; daughter Deanna Hughes-Castro (Maria) of Olathe, KS; daughter Leanna Hughes-Mitchell (Stephen) of Loveland, CO; son Gregory E. Hughes (Deb)
of Grand Junction, CO; nine grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and sister Norma Frisby (Ray), along with many nieces and nephews.
Gary will be deeply missed by his loyal dog, Anna, who was his faithful companion and brought him comfort in his later years.
He was preceded in death by his wife Shirley, parents George and Wilma, and brother-in-law Ray.
And now... "This is it."
Visitation will occur at Larrison Mortuary, 300 Country Club Road, Pratt, KS on Friday, August 9, 2024, at 9 AM with interment following at Greenlawn Cemetery in Pratt, KS at 11 AM. A Celebration of Life service will be held at the United Methodist Church in Williamsburg, KS on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at 10:30 AM.
Memorials may be made to Williamsburg United Methodist Church or Williamsburg Booster Club in care of Larrison Mortuary. Online condolences may be left at www.larrisonmortuary.com.