Reverend Gary Glenmar Close

Rev. Gary Glenmar Close went home to be with his Lord on Saturday October 13, 2018.  He was born August 11, 1942. Gary was the son of the late Glenmar and Eleanor Rollier Close. He faithfully served in ministry for 40 years, earnestly desiring to live for and honor God in all he did. Gary also served as a chaplain in the Army for 25 years and retired as a full colonel.  He was an amazing listener, compassionate, and had a love for people.  Gary modeled his faith before all, and he shared God’s love wherever he went. Reading, collecting books, telling stories and biking were some of his favorite things. He led many bike trips for Pine Springs Camp. Gary also had a special place in his heart for Ligonier Camp and Conference Center where he attended camp as a young boy and then was a counselor and lifeguard as young adult.  He is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Susan Dietrich Close, and his three daughters Rebecca and her husband John Fisher of Lower Burrell, Rachel and her husband Ross Cutts, of Lexington KY, and Sarah and her husband Mike Yajko of Peninsula Ohio. Gary is also survived by a brother, Richard and his wife Virginia Close of Schwenksville PA, and a sister Margaret and her husband Fraser O’Neil of Myrtle Beach, SC.  Gary is survived by eight grandchildren. The family will receive friends from 11:00am until 1:00pm on Saturday October 20, 2018 at Puckety Church.  There will be a celebration of Gary’s life and homecoming on Sunday October 21, 2018 at        2:00 pm at Puckety Church in Lower Burrell.  Following the service, there will be a time to greet the family in the main church building, and everyone is welcome to gather in Faith Hall for a simple cookie and coffee fellowship time from 3:45-5:30.  We welcome anyone to come to whatever you are able, to help us celebrate Gary’s life.  In lieu of flowers the family asks that those desiring, may make donations to either Pine Springs Camp: PO Box 186   371 Pine Springs Camp Road  Jennerstown, PA 15547 or Ligonier Camp and Conference Center 188 McCartney Lane  Ligonier, PA 15658.  

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