G.M. Harding

Gary Michael Harding of San Jose, California was born on August 24, 1948 in Galesburg, Illinois, and passed away peacefully with loved ones by his side on October 24, 2021 at 73 years old, after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease.

Gary (or GM as he preferred to be called) was in a league of his own. He had a rare keen intellect, and was a quick-witted conversationalist, spirited teacher, and adrenaline-seeking adventurer. After serving in the United States Army, he worked as a software engineer in Silicon Valley for decades before retiring to fulfill his lifelong dream of attending law school. After graduating from Lincoln Law School, he decided to dedicate his time to substitute teaching at local high schools, engaging students with his epic stories and thoughtful lessons. He traveled the world, flew planes for many years, and zipped around in his sports car—and on his motorcycle for even longer. He truly lived a beautiful and inspirational life.

He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Celia Harding, and his daughter Dabay (Roehl) Villarin, his granddaughter Ciena Villarin, and sister Janet (Peter) Rutherford. He was preceded in death by his loving parents Richard and Eloise Harding.

A memorial and celebration of life will be held in the Oak Hill Funeral Home drawing room on Veterans Day, November 11, 2021, from 2-4pm. A reception will be held onsite directly after the memorial.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Cure Alzheimer's Fund or the Alzheimer's Foundation of America in honor of Gary's memory.