Garwin DeRoin

A proud graduate of Perry High School in Perry, Oklahoma, Garwin DeRoin made his mark where it mattered most—on the wrestling mat. Every match was a battle, and quitting was never in his vocabulary. With grit, determination, and a laser-sharp focus, Gar put the entire state of Oklahoma on notice—especially those in the 177 lb. weight class. His hard work paid off when he achieved his dream of becoming a State Champion.

That same drive followed him into the U.S. Army, where he quickly rose from Private E1 to Private E2 thanks to his dedication, strong character, and natural leadership. Gar earned the Combat Infantry Badge (1st Award), the EXPERT Badge with Auto Rifle and Machine Gun, and the Marksman Badge with Rifle. He was also awarded the Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Achievement during his service in the Republic of Vietnam.

Gar's philosophy was "Boomer! Sooner!" Whether it was basket weaving, curling, softball, or football, Gar was all in for the Crimson & Cream. He once said, "Bury me in my favorite shirt, a 12-pack, and a TV to watch the Sooners."

Gar passed away knowing the Oklahoma Sooners are the best team ever—but even more than that, he knew he had a family who loved him deeply, including Deborah, his high school sweetheart and wife, who passed before him. A daughter, Heather, who stood by him through everything. A son, Jeremy, who was taken too soon. A son-in-law, Edwin, who he could always count on. And the apple of his eye, his granddaughter Hanna.

He was proud, stubborn, funny, and full of heart. And he never missed a chance to cheer for his team or brag about his family.

You could see Gar's grit and heart in the stories folks told—coworkers, neighbors, friends, and family all had something to share. That same fire and focus took him to a career at Tinker Air Force Base, where he worked as a Sheet Metal Mechanic on B-52 airplanes. He hung up his tools and retired from Tinker in 2009.

Like anyone, Gar had a few regrets. He wished he'd spent more time fishing. But the ones that weighed heaviest on him at the end were not showing enough compassion and understanding to his daughter Heather and not spending enough time with his granddaughter, Hanna.

Gar is survived by his daughter Heather Perez and her spouse Edwin Perez of Yukon, Oklahoma, his granddaughter Hanna Perez-Gulley and her spouse Ian Gulley of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

A graveside service for Garwin will be held Wednesday, August 20, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Otoe Missouria Tribal Cemetery, Red Rock, OK.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the American Cancer Society.