After a life of love and quiet grace, Gary Lee Blickenstaff of Coldwater, MI has passed.
These words are offered in his memory — small, but heartfelt.
Gary held deeply to the Methodist faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
Those who live by belief leave a different kind of mark.
Gary Lee Blickenstaff, 82, of Coldwater, Michigan, passed away, Sunday, May 3, 2026, at Maple Lawn Medical Care in Coldwater.
He was born on August 6, 1943, in Hinsdale, Illinois, to Luther and Evelyn (Courtemanche) Blickenstaff.
Gary had an older brother, Denny, and sister, Patricia. When Gary was two years old, his mother died in a car accident, and he was then raised by his father, Luther, and stepmother, Florence. She was good with the children, and they also had a child together, Terry.
Gary grew up at Flat Rock, Michigan. At the age of 16, he raced at Flat Rock Racetrack.
Jobs came along in Pontiac, Michigan at an automobile plant, and later for Bentz Metal Products in Fort Wayne.
Gary enjoyed his 1967 Mustang. He showcased his Mustang at nationals on two occasions at the age of 52. Soon after, had a severe stroke and just did odds and ends for work after that.
He enjoyed all kinds of movies and had a huge collection of DVDs. He also enjoyed dancing, going to car races and spending time with family and his beloved dog Barry.
Gary was baptized and was a member of the United Methodist Church in Union City, where he served as an usher.
He met Mary Mason in 2003, and they have been companions in traveling adventures and visits along the way.
He leaves along with his former family members, brother, Denny; sister, Patty; father; mother; stepmother; uncle, Clair Blickenstaff; aunts, Kate and Audrey; sister-in-law, Doris Blickenstaff; and nieces, nephews and friends.
Gary had a best friend, Dave Robson, and they shared the love of racing and NASCAR. He also had friends in the Auburn area, Pete and John Grimm.
A graveside service will take place at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Woodlawn Cemetery, 1605 Center St., Auburn, with the Rev. Dr. Robert Craig officiating.
Memorial donations may be directed to the American Diabetes Association, Indiana and Kentucky Chapter, P.O. Box 7023 Merrifield, VA 22116-7023. https://diabetes.org/?form=Donate
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