Gary Wayne Shuck

Gary Wayne Shuck, 84, of Moreno Valley, California, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on February 18, 2026. Born October 21, 1941, in Geneva, Kentucky, Gary was the son of Edward and Mary Elizabeth Shuck. He lived a life defined by wisdom, courage, kindness, and steadfast devotion to the people and principles he loved. He was gentle, inspirational, brave, hardworking, and loyal—qualities that guided him throughout a life of service to his country, his family, and his community.

Gary’s love of the outdoors began in his early years in Geneva, Kentucky. Some of his fondest memories were fishing with his father and brother and hunting in the countryside. As a young man, he also developed a passion for archery, earning many awards and recognitions in his youth for his skill and dedication to the sport. These early experiences shaped a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors, discipline, and perseverance.

He pursued education with determination, earning a Bachelor of Science from Western Kentucky College with a double major in Industrial Arts and Mathematics, and later completing a master’s degree in Electrical Engineering.

Gary proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for more than 25 years. Entering active duty on February 10, 1965, he rose through the ranks to retire as a Colonel (O-6) on December 31, 1990. During his distinguished career he served as a pilot and air operations officer, including assignments as a Strategic Bomber-Tanker pilot, Squadron Operations Officer, and Commander.

Among his aviation duties, Gary piloted the KC-10 aerial refueling aircraft, an advanced tanker capable of both refueling other aircraft in flight and receiving fuel while airborne. This complex mission supported long-range global operations and demonstrated the high level of skill and precision required of Air Force pilots. His service also included operational involvement during the Vietnam era.

Throughout his military career, Gary continually expanded his professional expertise through advanced military education. His training included studies at the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, the Air War College, the Armed Forces Staff College, the Squadron Officer School, and the Senior Staff Orientation Course, preparing him for senior leadership and operational responsibilities within the Air Force.

Gary’s exemplary service was recognized with numerous honors and decorations, including the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with three Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Organizational Excellence Award, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Vietnam), Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon, Small Arms Expert Pistol Ribbon, Air Force Training Ribbon, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

After completing almost 26 years of active military service, Gary retired from the Air Force and resettled in Moreno Valley, CA. His dedication to aviation continued in civilian life, where he worked for FlightSafety International for seven years as a flight instructor, mentoring and training future aviators.

Shortly after graduating from college, Gary met the love of his life, Delores Sutton, on a blind date. Their connection quickly grew into a lifelong partnership. They were married on February 27, 1965, and shared nearly 61 years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, partnership, and family.

Gary is lovingly remembered by his wife Delores; his children Jennifer and Tom Mangione, and Brian Shuck; and his grandchildren Adriana and Chad Kelsey; Isabella and Joshua Frazer; Carter Shuck; and Brayden Shuck.

Family and fellowship were central to Gary’s life. He enjoyed hunting with his brother Jerry and his childhood friend Junior, and he cherished traveling across the country in their Airstream. In retirement, Gary and Delores enjoyed the friendships and adventures that came with Airstream travel as members of SMART (Special Military Active Recreational Travelers) and the Wally Byam Airstream Travelers Club, sharing fellowship and experiences with fellow travelers across the country.

For 30 years Gary attended Grove Community Church, where he found faith, friendship, and community.

A lifelong lover of mathematics and puzzles, Gary believed strongly in keeping his mind sharp. One of his greatest joys was tutoring his grandchildren in math, patiently helping them learn and grow. He showed his love through consistent presence—attending every grandchild’s event, including sports and theater performances, and ensuring that holidays were always spent together as a family.

Gary’s legacy is one of faithful presence, quiet strength, dedicated service, and enduring love. His life stands as a testament to devotion—to God, to family, and to country.

Visitation will be held at Acheson & Graham Garden of Prayer Mortuary, 7944 Magnolia Ave., Riverside, CA, on March 16, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. A funeral service will follow from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the same location.

Committal with military honors will take place at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, CA, on March 16, 2026, from 1:45 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.

Gary will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all whose lives he touched.