Gary R. Gester of Elkton, MD, age 74, passed away peacefully Friday, October 8, 2021, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Chelsea, MA on June 29, 1947, he was the son of the late Norman Gester and Stella Nolan.

After proudly serving in the United States Navy in the Vietnam era aboard the USS Beverly W. Reid APD 119 and the USS Liddle APD 60. Gary started his family in Massachusetts where they lived until relocating to Maryland. After an exceptional career of 28 years, Gary retired from Astra Zeneca in Newark, DE maintaining perfect attendance for his entire time employed there.

Gary loved going to the beach. With music in his heart, Gary would sing and dance at every opportunity. He was a well-loved man and the life of the party wherever he went. Gary will be remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather who was devoted to his family.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Linda Gester; children: Kristy Tyree and Karen Sheets, husband Jason Sheets all of Elkton, MD; Grandchildren: Joshua Cooper, Kayla Sheets, Brianna Tyree and Madison Sheets; Siblings: Lawrence Gester, wife Jane Wiley, Ricky Nolan wife Meredith Nolan and Michael Nolan; Nephews: Derek and Alex Gester.

In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by his brother, Patrick and sister, Deborah.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at 12:30 pm on Wednesday. October 27, 2021 at R.T. Foard Funeral Home, 259 E. Main St., Elkton, MD 2921, where family and friends may begin visiting at 11:30 am. Burial will follow at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery at 2 pm. To send online condolences, please visit www.rtfoard.com.