Gary Dee Ridinger

Gary will always be remembered for his love of working on trucks, cars, model trains and anything his neighbors needed repaired. He spent countless hours teaching his grandchildren the same skills he had perfected over his lifetime.

He was a decorated veteran, serving in the US Army during the Vietnam war as an aircraft engine technician. After discharge, he returned to North Platte and worked as an automotive technician for Datsun and Chevrolet. Gary also volunteered as a firefighter, giving back to his community. Gary then relocated to the metro Atlanta area and worked for Rainbow Motors for many years. He went on to work for Lift Atlanta as a forklift mechanic.

Gary is survived by his wife of 33 years, Kay Siewert Ridinger. Other surviving relatives include his brother Larry Ridinger, children Tammy Kimminau, Beth Watts (fiancé Jeff), Joy Epler (spouse Troy) and Christina Ridinger (spouse James), Drew and Marlie Siewert (brother and sister-in-law) and Judy Siewert (sister-in-law). He was blessed with many grandchildren; Zachary, Alexis and Jacob Watts; Jordan, Jared, Anthony, Isaiah, Gracie and Josiah Epler; and Aiden and Collin Grubbs. Great grandchildren include Kennedy, Ivy and Jayce May. Nieces and nephews: Mary Peavy, Soni Clark, Tracey Slusser, Robin Chappell, Janet Alford, Lori Post, Stacey Bray, Shelly Lo, Samantha Rodia, Shanna Brooks, Tisha Cote, Robert Ridinger, David Clark, Michael Smith and Cody Erickson.

A memorial service will be held at Fairview Memorial Garden, 164 Fairview Rd, Stockbridge, Georgia 30281 on April 18, 2026 at 1 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wesley Community Fellowship, P.O. Box 80160, Conyers Georgia 30013.