Gary Conover

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Paul “Gary” Conover on Thursday, August 28, 2025. Gary was in hospice care and died at home surrounded by loved ones. Born on January 23,1949 in Colorado Springs, CO to DeVerne and Paul M. Conover, Gary married the love of his life, Sally McGuill, on June 11, 2011.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Sally, their faithful rescue dog Autumn “Auttie,” his sister Nancy (Toby) Anderson, his nephews and niece: Andrew Anderson, Ted (Shannon) Anderson, Austin (Kelly) Simmons, Heidi Ryan, and cousins Dale Conover Sr. and family. He was preceded in death by his sister, Janet Conover.

Gary was a cornerstone of the Colorado Springs community. Following in the footsteps of his father and uncle, he built a career in commercial real estate—Conover Real Estate and Investment Company—located in the heart of downtown. He especially valued providing loans to first-time business owners and cared deeply about fostering growth and opportunity. His work left a lasting mark on the community he loved.

Outside the office, Gary was an avid bird enthusiast, gardener, conservationist, and admirer of art, architecture, archaeology, and literature. The term “Renaissance man” is often tossed about, but Gary was just that—the real deal.

He served on many Boards in the community and was a founding member of the Palmer Land Trust in the 1980s. Gary remained a dedicated supporter throughout his life. He passionately advocated for the preservation of farmland, the protection of water rights for farmers, and the safeguarding of the Arkansas River Valley. In recognition of his decades of commitment, Gary was honored with the Excellence in Conservation Award from the Palmer Land Conservancy in 2022, a testament to his tireless efforts and deep love for the land.

Gary’s generosity also extended to the arts and cultural life of Colorado Springs. He and Sally were longtime supporters of the Colorado Springs Philharmonic, the Pioneers Museum, Fine Arts Center, and the Historic Preservation Alliance, where Gary was a Treasurer and Board Member, believing strongly in the importance of preserving history and enriching the community through music, art, and culture.

At times, Gary was known for his quiet and reserved demeanor, but following his marriage to Sally, he began to noticeably embrace her lighthearted love of life. And when two neighbor children moved in next-door, he welcomed them as his own. From trips to Disney World to magical Christmas and Easter mornings and Spider-Man-themed birthday celebrations, Gary delighted in becoming “Grandpa Gary.” These joyful moments revealed the playful, tender side of his heart—one that will be forever cherished by those who shared them.

Friends will remember Gary’s dry sense of humor, quick wit, and the warmth he brought to every relationship. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the land, culture, and art he held dear.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Gary’s memory to the Colorado Springs Philharmonic. A celebration of life for Gary will take place Saturday, October 11, 2025 from 2:00-4:00 pm at the Colorado Springs Country Club, 3333 Templeton Gap Road 80907.