Gary Allen Waldbillig

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Barbara (Horvat) Waldbillig; daughter, Deanna (John) Linenberg; son-in-law, Patrick Long; brothers Robert and Carl (Anne); and sister-in-law, Judy. Gary was the proud grandfather of six grandchildren, Daniel, Joseph, Evan, Andrew, Matthew and Nathan, along with many nieces and nephews.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents Carl and Margaret (Beleck) Waldbillig; his cherished daughter Donna Long; brothers Kenneth and Ronald (Marcia); and sister-in-law Marianne.

Born in Iron Mountain, Michigan, in 1941, Gary enjoyed an adventurous Upper Peninsula childhood, graduating from Kingsford High School in 1959. He would remain fond of his Upper Peninsula roots throughout his life.

With an early passion for medical science, Gary moved to Cleveland, Ohio, to study radiology technology at Huron Road Hospital, where he met his beloved future wife, ‘Bun’. They began their life together in December of 1963 at Holy Cross Church in Euclid, Ohio, and two years later welcomed their first child. Continuing his lifelong educational journey, Gary and his young family moved to Marquette, Michigan, where he completed his degree at Northern Michigan University and enjoyed numerous outdoor activities. Gary’s path then continued to southeast Michigan, continuing his career at Sinai Hospital, growing the family, and settling down in Livonia. Going on, Gary would study business management and develop a medical equipment specialization. An expert in medical imaging, he was well known for his knowledge of anatomy, biology, and chemistry and the use of technology to diagnose and treat disease.

Gary had an incredible thirst for knowledge and lifelong learning. He enjoyed travel, especially the road less taken, frequently finding himself lost, on another adventure, and discovering a new favorite place. Always open to where God was leading him and growing a deep prayer life, Gary expanded his faith through parish activities at St. Colette Catholic Parish and visiting local historic churches and neighborhoods. Gary and Barbara traveled to the Holy Land, Europe, and around the U.S., generously supporting missionary works in communities throughout their travels. Later in his retirement, Gary could be found at the grocery store, seeking an ingredient, in the kitchen making soup, at the garden center, or outside in one of his gardens, shovel in hand, chatting with the neighbors. Characterized by his determined spirit, support of family, generosity, inquisitive nature, and in-depth conversations, Gary will be missed by many.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 2, 2026 from 5:00-8:00 with a 7:00 p.m. prayer service at Harry J. Will Funeral Home: 37000 Six Mile Rd, Livonia, Michigan.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., with in-state beginning at 9:30 a.m., at St. Colette Catholic Church, 17600 Newburgh Rd., Livonia, MI 48152.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, Solanus Casey Center, or the Dominican Sisters of Mary Mother of the Eucharist (Ann Arbor).