Gary Wayne Stroup, Sr, age 68, was born Dec. 15, 1950, in Sedalia, Mo., to Ora and Ola (Smith) Stroup. He passed away on Nov. 18, 2019, in Springfield, Mo.
He is preceded in death by his parents, and one sister, Linda Gloth. Gary is survived by his wife, Marjorie Stroup of Houston, Mo.; his son, Gary Wayne Stroup, Jr. (Dawn) of Licking, Mo.; daughter, Patricia (Stroup) Smith (Don) of Blue Springs, Mo.; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews; brothers, Robert Stroup (Dora) of Nelson, Mo., and Larry Stroup (Alice) of Springfield, Mo.; sisters, Betty Sheley of Lincoln, Mo., and Debbie Cook (Dave) of Lincoln, Mo.
Gary met Marjorie Hayes in 1987, and they were joined in marriage on June 28, 1991, in Miami, Okla. They were blessed with, what Marjorie describes as the best 32 years of their lives.
Gary grew up and attended school at Sedalia, Mo. After a few years of serving in the U.S. Army, Gary went on to start a career as a truck driver. For the past 45 years, he drove for Houston Wood Treating, Houston Salvage, Pierce Scrap Metal and C&W Concrete & Construction. Gary tried to retire several times but just couldn’t get it out of his blood.
He received Christ as his Lord and Savior at a young age. For the past 22 years he has attended Faith Fellowship Church, where he loved serving, and thought of the church as his family.
Gary enjoyed the outdoors, whether it was hunting, fishing or just working in the yard. He was an active bowler for many years, before he developed a love for golfing. He also enjoyed watching football, and was a faithful Kansas City Chiefs fan. He and his nephew Jeremy of Wichita would be texting throughout every game.
Gary was a very kindhearted, selfless, fun loving man. Gary met and made many friends throughout his years. He loved to make people laugh. His sense of humor and his ability to turn any situation into a joke will be missed by all his friends and family, who love him.
Memorials may be made to the American Legion Post #41. Online condolences may be expressed at www.evansfh.com.
Visitation is 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019, at Faith Fellowship Church with a Celebration of Life beginning at 11 a.m. with Pastor Bill Villapiano officiating. Per his wishes, he was cremated under the direction of Evans Funeral Home.
PAID