Gary L. Gatewood

Gary L. Gatewood, 42, of St. Johns, Michigan, died on September 4, 2024. Born July 8, 1982, in Martin, Tennessee, Gary grew up with a deep love of the outdoors that stayed with him his entire life. He found great joy in hunting, fishing, golfing, and friendly competition — especially cornhole nights at the VFW and neighborhood tournaments where his humor and one-liners were as memorable as his play.

Gary built a life centered on family. He married Katie Smith on September 5, 2015, and together they raised five children who were the pride of his life. He was a caring presence at home, often firing up the grill or smoker to bring people together, and he delighted in sharing stories, laughter, and a good karaoke song with friends and family.

Professionally, Gary served as a Senior Gas Field Leader with Consumers Energy for a decade, a role he approached with pride and a straightforward leadership style — he once said he “loved being a boss.” Colleagues remember him for his willingness to help and his steady presence on the job.

Those closest to Gary recall his quick wit, sarcastic charm, and the warmth he showed to neighbors, teammates, and his large circle of friends. He is survived by his wife Katie; children Colton James “CJ,” Lukas Rivers, Kambria Loren “Sharkie,” Charleigh “Peanut,” and Khloe “Lo-bear;” granddaughter Nova; parents Randel and Karen Gatewood; and many extended family members, friends, and his dogs Roxy Ann and Gracie Lou. He was preceded in death by four angel babies and his grandmother Maurine Capra-Hickman.

Services were held in St. Johns with visitation and a funeral followed by burial at Mt. Rest Cemetery. The family asked that, in lieu of flowers, supporters consider donations of teddy bears or WubbaNubs for Charleigh’s Bags for Bears, reflecting Gary’s devotion to his children and his gentle, practical care for those he loved.

Gary’s legacy is one of family-first devotion, steady leadership, and a knack for making ordinary moments—barbecues, game nights, and team gatherings—into warm memories that will live on in those who loved him.