Gary Philip Lesser's Obituary
On a beautiful sunny Sunday, September 10, 2023 Gary P. Lesser, age 78, peacefully passed away at home in Palm Coast, Fl. He was the beloved husband for 21 years to Ann (Wasickie) Lesser. Children are Wendi McFarland and Nathan Sweet. Grandchildren are Sidney, Ash and Jazmyn. Brother Tom (Karen) reside in St. Marys, PA. Sister-in-law Toni (Antonia) lives in Pittsburgh, PA. Nephews are Brian, Steve, Chris and Travis and 6 great nephews and nieces. Gary was preceded in death by his parents Paul and Elaine Lesser and brother David.
Gary grew up in St. Marys, PA. (in the woods, as he always liked to say) hunting, fishing, fixing/rebuilding cars and helping out with the family business when needed and and on any given day Gary could be found at his favorite spot at the Boys and Girls Club in downtown Saint Marys. After attending Penn State, Gary moved to Pittsburgh in 1964 where he began his career working for DRAVO CORP. in the development engineering department. Along his 50+ year career he gained valuable knowledge and insight working for Western Precipitation, Busch Co., New York Blower, Joy Manufacturing and Chicago Blower. In 1986, he landed his dream job with Robinson Fans, Inc. in Zelienople, PA. He had arrived and was now in his element. Gary was born a salesman, oh how he loved every aspect of selling huge custom engineered fans and always keeping his customers informed of all details. In 2004 he became an Independent Sales Representative for Robinson Fans by establishing his own company, Fans For Industry, Inc., he worked diligently and was proud of his accomplishments.
In his free time, Gary enjoyed his beloved Steelers and Pirates, playing golf, visiting a casino now and then, traveling, was a genius handyman and enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He loved skiing and was on the National Ski Patrol at Hidden Valley for many years.
At 6'3" Gary proudly served his country as Sergeant in the US Army as a Military Policeman. He was involved in Big Brothers/Big Sisters organization by being a Big Brother to his 'little'.
Gary was a gentle giant, a remarkable man that embodied professionalism, possessed a wealth of knowledge, exuded gentlemanly grace, loved and excelled in sales and had a passion for working with people. He challenged his peers, encouraged people to think outside the box, was a great conversationalist, had many stories to tell (usually with great detail:), and he had a quick wit with comments or a one-liner that made people laugh.
He was one of the good guys and he will be dearly missed by his family and by his many friends.
Breathe easy Gary and Rest in Peace.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation of your choice in memory of Gary.
Boys and Girls Club of Saint Marys, Pennsylvania; Tunnel to Towers Foundation; Big Brothers/Big Sisters of GREATER PITTSBURGH.
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