Gary Anthony Wittekind

Born in Cincinnati, Ohio on May 28, 1950, Gary was raised in North Miami Beach, where he spent his formative years before attending the University of Florida. There, he earned a bachelor’s degree in business and began laying the foundation for a life defined by hard work, curiosity, and deep devotion to those he loved.

Gary began his career with Badcock Home Furniture, working at the corporate headquarters in Lakeland before moving to Cocoa, Florida, where he ran his first dealer store. His ambition and dedication led him to open a second location on Merritt Island. He retired from the furniture business in 2005 after a long and successful tenure.

Following his retirement, Gary pursued his true passion—home renovation and construction. Whether remodeling a home or building condos from the ground up in Cape Canaveral, Gary approached each project with hands-on skill, creativity, and pride. His work stood as a reflection of his character: strong, thoughtful, and built to last.

Gary was a man of many interests. He loved windsurfing, skiing, riding motorcycles, traveling the country in his RV, and attending concerts. A devoted music lover and adventurer at heart, he found joy in movement, freedom, and exploration. One of his greatest joys was his Rottweilers—his loyal companions who brought him endless love and laughter over the years.

He is survived by his loving wife, Keeratika “Kate” Wittekind; his children, Bryce Wittekind (Sara), Shana (Justin Ruskay), Corie Wittekind, and Tyler Wittekind; and his cherished grandchildren, Claire, Elise, Vivienne, Justin Thomas, and Evelyn. Gary was the son of Harold Wittekind and Betty Biere, and a beloved brother to Suzanne Pittman (nieces - Tammy O’Rourke, Linda Murphy, and Tracy Bisignano), Debbie Wittekind (life partner Bob Cohan), and Greg Wittekind (Melinda), (nieces -Michelle Isaacson and Jessica Wittekind)

Those who knew Gary will remember his kindness, charm, and sharp sense of humor. Though not always outwardly expressive, his love for his family and his dogs was deeply felt and never in question. Gary forged strong, lasting friendships across every stage of his life—through business, hobbies, and adventures. He was fiercely loyal, dependable, and always knew who he could count on—and his friends knew they could count on him. Gary leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and quiet strength. His presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all whose lives he touched.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 21, 2025 at 11:00 am at Wylie-Baxley Funeral Home 1360 N. Courtenay Parkway, Merritt Island, FL 32953