After Gary graduated with a BS degree in Mechanical Engineering from California Polytechnic University in 1961, he worked as a civilian for the military, testing missiles at Point Mugu Naval Air Station. He moved to the Washington DC area in 1973 to take a position with the United States Postal Service, where he worked for 26 years, rising through the ranks to head engineer responsible for devising and implementing conveyance systems at sorting facilities throughout the nation.
“Retirement” in 1999 represented a relocation to Jacksonville, Florida and a transition to the private sector, where Gary worked for several companies, serving as an engineering expert on the conveyance of parcels. He was involved in major overhauls of the automated systems at national postal services in many countries, including, India, Great Britain, Canada, Japan, and others. Passionate about his work, he remained active in his industry until the age of 75.
Gary was retired for six months before he felt the need to find meaningful work again, this time securing a position as a math tutor for underprivileged youth. He tutored children in foster care homes, as well as other students facing myriad challenges. He prized the time he spent with these children, checking in with them frequently and speaking of them often to family and friends.
Throughout his time in Jacksonville, Gary was an active member of Episcopal Church of Our Savior. A favorite activity there was his role as “the grits guy” at a monthly breakfast served to the church by an all-male team.
Above all, Gary cherished family. He was never so happy as when all of his “girls” were under one roof.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Vern and Mildred, as well as a son, Robby. He is survived by his wife Kate Flann; a sister, Karen Noe of Sacramento, CA; three daughters, Kathy Flann of Baltimore, Md, Stephanie Penn of Jacksonville, Florida, and Rachelle Flann of Orlando, Florida; and two grandchildren – Liam Penn and Ellis Yang.
Father Joe Gibbes will officiate a memorial service for immediate family on Monday April 7 at 11am at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, 11801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, Florida 32223.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Gary’s name to Community Hospice of Northeast Florida. To make a donation, please call 904-886-3883 or visit Support.CommunityHospice.com
Arrangements are under the care and direction of HARDAGE-GIDDENS FUNERAL HOME OF MANDARIN, 11801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32223. www.hgmandarin.com (904) 288-0025.
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