Gary Denver Platou

Gary Denver Platou, 79, of Chandler, Arizona, was born on October 3, 1946 and left this earth on January 27, 2026. Gary was a steady presence, a man of strength, grit, and dry humor, someone who showed his love not through many words, but through hard work, lessons and always being there when it mattered most. Those who knew him knew they could count on him, and those who loved him knew they were deeply loved in his own quiet, unwavering way.

Gary shared more than 55 years with his beloved partner, Jackie, with whom he raised three children and built a life rooted in family and hard work. Their early years together were filled with adventure, traveling with the kids, camping, fishing, and boating, creating stories, laughter, and memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Gary was a proud United States Navy veteran, serving his country during the Vietnam War on the USS Frank Knox. After his military service, he dedicated more than 35 years to UPS as a truck driver, earning the respect of his coworkers for his strong work ethic, reliability, and memorable sense of humor, often expressed through the occasional well-timed prank.

Outside of work, Gary found happiness in restoring old cars, flying RC planes, and tinkering with the thousands of tools he collected over the years. He had a well-known sweet tooth, often surprising the family with Saturday morning donuts. Growing up in Illinois, he never lost his love for classic Chicago food. Above all, Gary will be remembered for his quick wit, sharp sense of humor, and the pride he carried for his service, his work, and his family

Gary is survived by his wife, Jackie; his daughter Michele and her wife, Teresa; his son Brian and his partner, Michelle, along with his daughters Brooke and Ally; and his youngest daughter Jennifer, her husband John, and their daughters Jolie, Grace, and Faith. Being a grandfather was one of Gary’s greatest joys, and he shared an especially close bond with his youngest granddaughter, Jolie, who lovingly called him “Papa.”

A devoted animal lover, Gary also leaves behind his cherished dog, Elsa, who rarely left his side and will miss him dearly.

Gary’s legacy lives on through the family he loved, the laughter they shared, and the lessons he passed down; how to take care of a car, the value of hard work, and the importance of a good joke at just the right time. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.

We love you, Papa

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