Gary C Carpenter

Gary Clair Carpenter, born June 1, 1936, in Eddyville, Nebraska, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. He was the beloved son of Bernice and Andrew Carpenter and the eldest of four children. He grew up alongside his siblings, Darlene, Daniel, and John, forming lifelong bonds rooted in family and shared memories.

On August 28, 1957, Gary married Jacquelin “Jackie” Wilcox, the love of his life. Gary was a devoted husband, sharing 69 years of marriage with Jackie. Together, they built a strong and loving family, raising six children: Valerie, Susan, Brad, Brent, Kirk, and Steve. Gary took great pride in his role as a husband, father, and provider. He was deeply dedicated to his family and always made sure their needs were met well before his own.

Gary dedicated 40 years of his career to Nebraska Public Power, where he was known for his strong work ethic and commitment. After his retirement, he and Jackie made their home in Las Vegas, where he enjoyed his later years.

Gary always found time to contribute to the community he lived in. He volunteered his time with St. Agnes Catholic School, the Lions Club, the City of Commerce, and United Way. He believed deeply in giving back and strengthening the connections that make a community thrive. Whether he was organizing events, lending a helping hand, or simply showing up when needed, Gary’s presence made a lasting difference.

Gary had a deep love for the outdoors, especially fishing. He spent many cherished summers camping and fishing in the Rocky Mountains of Wyoming, creating lasting memories with family and enjoying the peace and beauty of nature. He loved to laugh and often shared stories of the “good old days,” bringing joy and connection to those around him.

He was an incredible and talented artist with a passion for carving. He spent countless hours in his shop carving, painting, and dreaming, fully immersed in the joy of creating. He was especially talented at carving miniature cowboy boots, cowboys with big hats, and all kinds of unique characters, each piece reflecting his creativity and attention to detail. His hands brought life to each piece, and his workshop became a place where imagination and craftsmanship met. His collection of artwork brought smiles and inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to see it. His creativity and dedication to his craft will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

Gary’s favorite things were simple but meaningful: home-baked pies, which he enjoyed with dinner and always followed with another slice for dessert, and bragging about his family, whom he loved so deeply.

Fond memories of Gary include him smoking his pipe outside after dinner, the peaceful image of him fishing a mountain stream, and the sound of his laughter, something heard often, as he truly enjoyed every moment of his life.

His legacy extends through generations. He is lovingly remembered by his 17 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Gary found immense joy in watching his family grow and cherished every opportunity to spend time with them.

Gary will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to family, his steady presence, his sense of humor, and the love he shared so freely. His life was a testament to commitment, resilience, creativity, and the importance of family bonds.

He will be laid to rest in Las Vegas, a place he called home for the last 32 years.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the community he served, and the art he created with his hands and heart.

A Funeral Service will be held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 1811 Pueblo Vista Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89128, US, on April 1, 2026, at 10:00 am, followed by a Committal Service at Palm Northwest Cemetery, 6701 North Jones Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89131, US, on April 1, 2026, at 12:00 pm.

Donations may be made to City Mission Ministries (https://www.citymissionministries.org/), The Salvation Army (https://give.salvationarmyusa.org/campaign/680817/donate?utm_source=google&utm_medium=ppc&utm_campaign=sal-national-fy26&utm_content=ppc-givewithjoy-sustaining&utm_term=usn-usn&id=17685681808&c_src=NC26TLGAJC&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17685681808&gclid=CjwKCAjwspPOBhB9EiwATFbi5OBbrLUI09YQO1L5suFVvEwYDvrc1T5_NMpiT8bWmSBR1BD132gkCBoCd0QQAvD_BwE), or SafeNest (https://safenest.org/how-to-help/donate/).