Gary Wheaton Conlan

Gary Wheaton Conlan, known affectionately to his friends and family as "Big G," was a devoted family patriarch and decorated U.S. Navy veteran. He passed away peacefully surrounded by family at his home in Marietta, Georgia, on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at the age of 80.

Born in Beaufort, South Carolina, on December 23, 1944, Gary spent his formative years in Lake Quivira, Kansas. At Shawnee Mission North High School in Mission, Kansas, Big G was a competitive and decorated swimmer, with the butterfly being his signature stroke. After high school graduation in 1962, Gary then answered the call to serve by enlisting in the U.S. Navy.

His distinguished military career included multiple tours of duty in Vietnam, and he served aboard the nuclear submarine USS Guardfish. For his bravery and commitment, Gary was highly decorated, receiving both the Bronze Star Award and the National Defense Service Medal.

Upon completing his service, Big G utilized the GI Bill to attend the University of Kansas, proudly graduating with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Outside of his professional life, Gary was an avid car enthusiast, with a lifelong passion for American muscle, particularly Chevy and Ford vehicles. He was an active and dedicated member of both the Chevrolet Impala Driving Club and the Corvette Driving Club.

Family

Gary was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margaret (Peggy) Conlan, his parents, Eleanor and Emmett Conlan, and his brother, Patrick Conlan.

His legacy of strength and love is carried on by his surviving family: his sons, Brian Andrew Conlan (Rae), and James Gary Conlan. He is also survived by his cherished granddaughter, Rae Louise, and his devoted sisters, Kathleen Gray Seeley and Helen Conlan Eckhardt (John).

Big G’s life was marked by service, achievement, his enthusiasm for the open road, and dedication to his family. He will be deeply missed.

A graveside service to honor Gary’s life will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, 11:00 AM at Georgia National Cemetery, 1080 Scott Hudgens Dr, Canton, GA 30114 with Rev. Glenn Ray officiating.

A reception will immediately follow at Local on North, 170 North Street, Canton, GA 30114.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or St. Jude Children’s Hospital to honor the memory of Big G.