Gary M. Fineske

Gary Fineske, a cherished husband, devoted father, beloved grandfather, dedicated friend, and Christian passed away on August 14, 2024, at the age of 78. Born on June 16, 1946, in Toledo, Ohio, Gary was the son of Marvin and Virginia Fineske and the loving brother of Judi Simmons, who preceded him in death.

Gary’s education began at Libbey High School and continued at Toledo University where he played football. He later graduated from Bowling Green University receiving a BS in Education, where his love for teaching and guiding others took root. Gary was the Mr. Toledo bodybuilding champion in 1967. He was a proud member of the US Army from 1968 to 1970, serving as a Sergeant in the Vietnam War. After his military service, Gary married Delores Ewing on December 15, 1970, in Dallas, Texas. Their union was a source of immense joy and partnership for over five decades. After dedicating 20 years to a career as a chemist, Gary pursued his true passion for health and teaching. He volunteered as a trainer at the Wicker Gym at First Baptist Church Dallas, and later worked at the Cooper Fitness Center and the Tom Landry Center. His skills as a massage therapist led him to work on the World Cup referees in 1994 and then achieving his goal to work with professional athletes including the Ironman series in Louisville, KY, the Dallas Burn (now FC Dallas) soccer team and eventually working with the Dallas Mavericks, where he traveled to over 1,300 NBA games during a 14-season career. Following his time with the Mavericks, Gary continued to inspire and educate as a teacher and mentor in massage therapy and personal training. His guidance and encouragement helped countless individuals strive for their best and reach their full potential.

Gary Fineske’s legacy is one of dedication, love, an enduring spirit, and goofy personality that inspired all who knew him, leading to lifelong friendships from every phase of his life. He had an extraordinary ability to connect with people from all walks of life, engaging with anyone and everyone who crossed his path, because he genuinely cared about them and their story. Gary was unforgettable for his talkative, friendly nature, passion, and sometimes quirky humor, always eager to lend an ear and offer support in any way possible. He loved the Lord and found strength in his relationship with Jesus Christ and wanted to share that with everyone he met. Our family finds solace in knowing that Gary peacefully went to sleep and woke in the arms of Jesus… and then proceeded to talk his ear off. He will be missed but remembered for the joy he brought into the lives of those around him.

Gary is survived by his wife, Delores Fineske; his children, Chad (Rachael) of Waco, TX, Scott (Katie) of Hunt, TX, and Kevin (Cyndi) of Bellingham, WA; and his nine beloved grandchildren, Caleb, Asher, Luke, Lane, Liam, Lily, Claire, Kyla, and Cora. Gary is also remembered fondly by his many nephews and nieces.

Guacamole!

A memorial service for Gary will be held Wednesday, August 21, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Grove Hill Funeral Home, 3920 Samuell Blvd, Dallas, Texas 75228.