Gary "Dr. Garwood" Wieghat

Born on November 16, 1957, Gary was a man who lived life on his own terms — with strength, humor, loyalty, and a heart bigger than most people realized. He was deeply devoted to those he loved and carried a quiet gentleness beneath his rugged exterior. If you knew him well, you knew his kindness ran deep.

Gary grew up in Houston, Texas, where some of his favorite memories were formed. As a boy, he played Little League and spent countless hours with his father at drag races in Porter, Texas. Those years sparked a lifelong love of engines, speed, and the unmistakable sound of a powerful motor. He later worked side by side with his father in the garage, building race cars and working on transmissions — not just learning a trade, but building a bond that would define much of his life. In his father’s final chapter, Gary faithfully stepped into the role of caregiver, offering the same steady love and dedication he had received years before.

Gary loved the simple freedoms of life — fishing, listening to music, and spending time outdoors. Galveston Bay held special memories with Pete and Marge. His taste in music was bold and unmistakable, with Jimi Hendrix and Ozzy Osbourne often providing the soundtrack to his days. He had a deep appreciation for guns, cars, and guitars — things crafted with precision, character, and soul.

He had a special connection with animals, even forming a remarkable bond with raccoons that would eat from his hands. He also raised wolf hybrids, reflecting his respect for independence and wild spirit. Gary had a way of connecting with the untamed parts of life — and understanding them.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Arnold Louis Wieghat, Margaret Ann Fielding, and Willie Hall “Pete” Fielding, as well as his sister, LaNell Maxey Puckett.

Left to cherish his memory are his sisters, Linda Sue Crater and Terri Wieghat Vourganas and husband Rick.

Linda’s children:

Craig & Sarah. Kids- Michael Winterbauer, wife Chyanne and son Hunter Winterbauer, Matthew Winterbauer, CJ Winterbauer, Dakota Winterbauer, Dalilah Winterbauer.

Ryan & Nancy – Sariah Winterbauer, Ashley Winterbauer, Emily Winterbauer, Jacob Winterbauer and James Winterbauer

Alana & Brandon Tripp- Cody Stewart, Emma Tripp and Bailee Winterbauer.

Angela Crater- Jackson Crater

Terri’s children:

Victoria Vourganas

Peter Vourganas

Nathan Floyd

LaNell’s Children:

Raney Maxey

Megan Maxey Wilson & Lee

He will also be deeply missed by his lifelong friends Peggy Perkins, Bobby Henry, and Dylan Henry.

They will all carry his memory forward.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Craig and Dylan for their compassion and care in ensuring Gary’s comfort, safety, and well-being. Their devotion meant more than words can express.

Gary had a phrase he often shared:

“Love you all the time.”

It wasn’t just something he said — it was something he meant. And that love remains his legacy.

A celebration of life will be announced soon.