Gary Cyril Lowry passed away on Friday, November 1 surrounded by loving family. Born on December 15th, 1935 in Spokane, Washington to Cyril and Verda Lowry, Gary was the oldest of 10 children. He was raised in Southern Alberta, Canada where he made many life long friendships. In 1954, his family moved to Missoula, Montana where he graduated from Missoula County High School in 1956.
Gary entered the Air Force in 1957 and served for 4 years specializing in electrical systems. He married Marie Steed in 1958 and they enjoyed 66 years of marriage together. After his military service, he began his career with Boeing where he worked on the Minuteman Missiles from 1962-1980. He then transitioned to the position of customer representative with Boeing Commercial Airlines where he traveled around the world to several countries with his last placement being in Calgary, Alberta, Canada until his retirement in 2001.
Throughout his career, Gary worked with anything airborne, from missile systems, construction managers, pilots, contractors and all in between. Gary’s love of aviation also led him to obtain his commercial and private pilot’s license.
Gary is survived by his wife Marie, son Gary (Brenda) Lowry, daughter Suzie (Brad) Barringer, grandchildren Kelsey (Brent) Bandow, Alex (Tyler) Hurley, Amanda (Matt) Klinker, Kylie (Clint) Urick, Dylan (Becca) Barringer and Shelbe Barringer along with 8 great grandchildren and another on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings.
Upon retirement, Gary was able to move back to Great Falls full time where he loved to follow his children and grandchildren in their athletic and extra-curricular endeavors and was a staunch Rustler supporter. He also enjoyed volunteering at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center where he loved meeting people, visiting, working the festival, assisting with school groups and snowshoeing with students from the Great Falls Public Schools. He was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he volunteered in different roles and cherished his faith and the relationships he built.
Gary had a love for old cars and was especially proud of his Mustangs and Thunderbirds and could be seen driving his convertible in many local parades. Gary’s most admirable quality was his dedication to his family. He felt a great responsibility in supporting, helping and encouraging them in any way he could. He was an extremely kind, generous and caring person who will be greatly missed.
A Funeral Service for Gary will take place at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1401 9th St. NW, Great Falls, MT on Saturday, November 9th, 2024, at 10:00 AM with a viewing one-hour prior, with Burial to follow at Manchester Cemetery.
Condolences may be shared with the family at www.croxfordfuneralhome.com
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