Obituaries

Gary Bruce Switzer, age 85, passed away on August 5, 2023, at McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital in Petoskey, Michigan.

Gary was born on November 21, 1937, to Henry and Alvina (Richter) Switzer in Traverse City, Michigan. He graduated from Allegan High School with the Class of 1955. On June 1, 1957, he married Lois VanHouten in Allegan, MI. Gary served in the Marine Corps Reserve and later the U.S. Army. He was a member of the American Legion Post #3. Gary attended Barber School and worked as a Barber for many years, retiring from the Captain’s Quarters Barber Shop in Sault Ste. Marie. He enjoyed working as a farmer and gardening; he also was an avid reader and enjoyed watching Westerns and the History Channel. Gary was a Ham Radio Operator and was the “Voice of the Weather” at 6:30 every night. He also loved spending time with his Border Collie, JoJo.

Gary is survived by his wife, Lois; his sons: Gary (Tamara) Switzer, Jr of Sugar Island, MI; Bruce (Nicole) Switzer of Sault Ste. Marie, MI; and Timothy (Kathleen) Switzer of Sugar Island, MI; and a daughter-in-law: Kristine Switzer of Dafter, MI. Also surviving Gary are his 9 grandchildren, 4 step-grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a sister-in-law: Grace Switzer of Allegan, MI; a sister: Karla of Florida and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Henry; and his brother, Wayne Switzer.

No public services will be held at this time.