Gary Lee Hargis

Gary Lee Hargis, 78, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2024. Born on October 14, 1946, in Phoenix, Arizona, he was the oldest of five children and is preceded in death by his parents, Edith Pauline "Polly" Clonch and Walter Hargis Jr.

He is survived by his loving wife Margaret (Burks) Hargis to whom he was married for 57 years, his daughter Honore Hargis, his son Steven (Sarah) Hargis, sisters Linda (Paul) Pritchard, Joan (Russell) Allen, brothers Darrell (Brenda), and Stanley (Tammy). He is also survived by 5 grandchildren, Kari Schrade, Kylie (Adam) Boogaard, Bradley Schrade, Zane Hargis, Scarlett Hargis, and 1 great-grandchild Maxwell Boogaard, with another on the way. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

At 17, Gary joined the U.S. Navy and spent 6 years (1964-1970) serving in the Navy and Naval Reserves during the Vietnam War where he received his scuba certification in Guam, his fireman certification, and became an Electrician's Mate 3rd Class. He served aboard the USS Saint Paul and received several honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal. He concluded his service as a Petty Officer 4th Class. In recent years, he actively participated in his local veteran's group, sharing stories of his experiences during the war.

After his military service, Gary had a career as an electrician and in management, working for Marathon Steel, Allied Signal, Garrett, Honeywell, and ultimately retiring from the City of Chandler. His passion for learning never waned; he earned both a bachelor's and an MBA in Business Management from the University of Phoenix.

He is fondly remembered for his wonderful, hearty meals, his love of all of his dogs, especially Gracie, and his ability to repair and build anything. He touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A viewing and memorial will be held at Horizon Funeral Care (7530 E Main St., Mesa) Monday, October 28th from 8 am to 9:30 am, following that a graveside memorial service will be held at Queen of Heaven Cemetery (1562 Baseline Rd., Mesa) at 10 am. A live stream of the service will be available Monday morning, please contact the family for information about viewing the live stream. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a veterans' organization or animal rescue of your choice.