Gary Allen Marchbanks

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Gary Allen Marchbanks on February 5, 2026, at the age of 83, surrounded by his loving daughters. Gary was born on April 20, 1942, to Bonnie and Mildred Marchbanks.

Gary was born and raised in Hanford, where he learned the value of hard work at a young age while working on the family farm alongside his father and grandfather. Together, they also build and owned the Marchbanks Speedway, aka Hanford Motor Speedway, where Gary spent many cherished years enjoying car races and rodeo events. Farming remained a family business until his retirement.

He graduated from Hanford High School in 1960, where he played basketball and participated in pole vaulting. Known for his adventurous spirit, Gary earned his driver's license at just 14 years old and shared many memorable moments with his friends. During his freshman year, he met Karen Cooperider, and they were married in 1961. This March 4th, they would have celebrated 65 years of marriage. Throughout the years, Dad and Mom enjoyed reading books and going to movies.

Gary was deeply committed to education and community service, serving on both the Lakeside and Hanford High School Boards to ensure that his daughters and other students received a quality education.

Gary embraced life wholeheartedly. He loved skiing with family and friends, playing tennis, and coaching softball and tennis. Above all, he treasured the time spent with his children and grandchildren, making it a priority to attend their games, events, and milestones throughout the years.

Coaching was Gary's true passion. What began as coaching his daughters, Tiffani in tennis and Holly in softball, grew into a lifelong dedication to mentoring and encouraging not only his grandchildren but others in the community through sports.

Gary valued friendship deeply and enjoyed regular breakfasts with lifelong friends, as well as lunches with family.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Bonnie and Mildred Marchbanks, and his sister, Joy Hansen.

He is survived by his wife, Karen, his daughters, Kelli (David) Brotherson, Tiffani Benedetti, and Holly (Angelo) Macias; his grandchildren, Hannah, Justin, Hunter, Isabella, Jensen, Gabrielle, Gianna, and Haley; his great-grandchildren, Paige, Esme, Sophie, and Aubrey; and his nieces and nephew—whom he loved as his own—Tami Mayol, Kim Apgar, and Chip Apgar.

A Graveside Service will be held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Hanford Cemetery (10500 S 10th Ave, Hanford, CA 93230).

Gary leaves behind numerous family members and friends who will cherish his memory. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared here for the Marchbanks family.