Gary E. Firlit passed away on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at the age of 74. Gary was born on December 21, 1949 in Utica, NY to the late Edward and Ann Jean Firlit. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Cheri Robedeau Firlit, and sons Gary E. Firlit, Jr (Anthony) and Michael Firlit (Jeanie), and grandchildren, Michael Augustus, Chloe Jean (CJ) and Jacob Howard, brothers Paul Firlit (Maryann), Edward Firlit (Lee) and sister Debi Firlit-Kaplan (Barry). He graduated from Wadhams Hall Seminary College in 1971 and entered the US Air Force in 1972 where he met Cheri at Andrews Air Force Base. After getting out of the Air Force, they bought their first home in Waldorf, MD. After working as a purchasing agent for MCI, Gary became APICS certified as a materials manager. In 1988, they decided to move to Fairport, NY to be closer to family. After a satisfying career in materials management, he retired from Magnus Precision in Phelps, NY.
Gary was an incredible father, brother, son, and grandfather. Being around family was the most important thing to him. Coming from a large family with cousins that lived next door, he made sure to instill the love of family in his children. Family get-togethers and holidays were always important to him. He was also an avid fisherman, active in Flower City Sportsman Bass Club for numerous years. It was not uncommon for him to “hit the streams” on his way home from work. And April 1st, opening day of trout season, was always a “holiday” for him, his dad, his brothers and once in a while his sons. Gary was also active in the Knights of Columbus, including serving as Grand Knight. As Grand Knight, he assisted in starting the Fairport Fishing Derby which he ran for many years, sharing his love of fishing with the next generations. He also had his Bass Club take veterans out on the lake so that they could get as much enjoyment from fishing as he did.
In his later years, he was affected by frontotemporal degenerative dementia. Supporting research into FTD is a cause that has become near and dear to Cheri’s heart. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to AFTD at www.theaftd.org
Calling Hours Tuesday June 11, 2024 3-7PM at the Richard H. Keenan Funeral Home (Egypt Location) 7501 Pittsford Palmyra Road, Fairport. Funeral Mass Wednesday June 12, 2024 9:30 AM at Church of the Assumption 20 East Ave, Fairport.
Comments
14 responses to “Firlit, Gary E.”
Sorry for your loss 💔. I learned a lot about fishing and life from Gary . He was one of the good guys . He will be missed .
I was blessed to have such a wonderful older brother whom I admired to the very end of his life. I love him. I only hope that my tears now will be dried by the many beautiful memories of my time spent with Gary fishing in streams, on lakes and at his secret honey hole on the canal. Peace be with you, Bro.
Gary’s character reflected his strong commitment to God , country, family and friends. His leadership qualities were evident to many and his engaging personality touched countless lives. His fishing stories were legendary and always made us smile. You will be greatly missed, dearest cousin , Gary. But because we believe in Jesus’ redeeming work, a heavenly, blessed reunion awaits us all someday. ❤️
Loved to listen to all the stories of young Gary and “Paulie” growing up in Utica from my mother, Marcia, who thought the world of her cousins. Sending so much love to our Firlit family during this difficult time.
I am so sorry for your loss. A great man, a great friend! It was an honor to work with him on the Fishing Derby. He brought smiles to so many. Rest in peace Gary. You will never be forgotten.
We are sending our love and prayers to you all. What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful man. Xoxoxo
My condolences to the entire Firlit family. I remember his father ” MAX ” in the good one days on Jay St. God ble ss ❤️ 🙏
The Brothers of Knights of Columbus Council 7085 (Fairport, NY) extend their heartfelt condolences to Gary’s family. Gary was an esteemed and greatly appreciated member of our council, and, of course, he was our Grand Knight for multiple years. He was kind and gracious with all, and he was a terrific example of a true Christian gentleman. We will miss his friendly smile, ready handshake, good humor, and “can-do” spirit, as well as his fish stories. His legacy will most certainly live on through his good work (e.g., the Annual Gary Firlit Fishing Derby) and, of course, through his wonderful family. God speed, Gary. Thank you for all you have done for others. Vivat Jesus.
Daniel W Mruzek
Grand Knight
Bishop McQuaid Council 7085
My condolences to the entire Firlit family . It seems like Gary led a wonderful life and touched so many lives thru the years . I remember our years at St . Stanislaus Grade School on Nichol St. In Utica. We had double grades back then and every other year Gary would be in my class along with his brother Paul. There were so many Firlit cousins!🥰 Rest in peace , Gary!
I met Gary in the back chapel row @6:45 am Mass @ COTA. A friendly faithful man, of course a fisherman like the Apostles. I had fun with Gary the day he took me fishing on the Canal at the wide waters spot.
A patient and gentle man.
God Bless Gary and his ability to share with others.
Firlit family. Jean and I are sorry to hear of Garrys passing. Gary always had a good fishing story. RIP Garry.
Tom & Jean Carroll
The Veterans Outreach Center extends our deepest sympathy in Gary’s passing.
We acknowledge and are truly grateful for his service to our country.
For all of his family and friends I am sorry about your loss.
Cousin Gary was the next generation patriarch for the 13 or so first cousins who grew up in the sixties at the corner of Bacon and Catherine Streets in East Utica. We were fortunate to live in a time when we could play outside unattended. Whether it was playing a neighborhood game of “chase” after dusk, exploring the nether industrial wastelands behind “Skenandoa” or throwing fastballs against the concrete wall on Bacon St, Gary was an adventurous, kind and generous cousin who set a fine example for his extended family. He was a leader to emulate, and he was also my Confirmation sponsor. The world would be a better place if we only had more Gary’s. He will be missed, and I will cherish his memory.