Gary Valentine Winchell was born on June 23, 1954, in Missoula, Montana, to Ray and Betty Winchell. He was the oldest of four children and held fond memories of growing up in Missoula, attending Franklin Elementary and Hellgate High School. He often reminisced about spending his days riding bicycles, getting into rock fights with neighborhood kids, and making memories with family and friends at his parents’ cabin on Flathead Lake.

One of the most meaningful relationships of Gary’s life began in childhood with his next-door neighbor, George Larengo, affectionately known as “The Old Man.” George quickly recognized something special in Gary and nicknamed him “Keeper” because of his helpful nature and kind heart. Their lifelong friendship shaped Gary deeply, and through countless hours spent in George’s shop, he learned how to fix nearly anything. Together, they even created their own language, using the word “conze” to mean repair or fix something. Gary often said George was one of the most important people in his life.

After briefly attending college, Gary realized his talents were best suited to hands-on work. He began working at Missoula Fire Supply before joining the railroad after learning of an opening from his mother. Gary was proud of his family’s long railroad history, which spanned generations and totaled nearly 300 years of combined service.

In May 1976, Gary married Marcee Sparman. They welcomed their daughter, Megan LaRae, in 1980 and later their son, Tyler Craig in 1982. Around that time, the Burlington Northern Railroad closed, abruptly ending Gary’s railroad career. Never one to shy away from hard work or a challenge, Gary immediately found work with Price Construction, learning to operate heavy equipment with no prior experience.

In 1982, his friend Bill Nooney offered him the opportunity to run a gas and service station, launching what would become a 43-year career in automotive repair. Over the years, the station operated under several names, including Exxon, Phillips 66, and eventually Sinclair. West Broadway Sinclair became well known for its outstanding customer service and loyal clientele. Gary and Marcee later divorced in 1993.

That same year, Gary began a friendship with Cynthia Johnson that blossomed into a loving 33-year partnership. Gary and Cyndie married in 1998. After the closure of West Broadway Sinclair, they moved his repair business to Palmer Street, where Gary opened West Side Auto. His customers faithfully followed him there, a testament to the trust and respect he earned throughout his career. He owned and operated the shop until retiring in 2023.

Gary was an incredibly talented and determined man whose abilities seemed endless. He loved solving problems, building and repairing things, and helping others whenever he could. His generosity with his time and talents touched countless friends, customers, and loved ones. His devotion to Cyndie was reflected throughout their home and garden, where his handiwork remains a constant reminder of his love. Even the day before his passing, despite severe back pain, Gary repaired a broken water line to spare his family a costly repair.

Though a man of few words unless telling a good story, Gary found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved fishing, hunting, golfing, and especially being at home. He was deeply proud of his children, Megan and her husband Tim, and Tyler. He was also especially close with his uncle, George Sherry, whose presence was a meaningful part of his life. He treasured his four grandchildren — T.J., Brooklynn, Molly, and Drew — and wished he could have spent more time with them in retirement. Gary also adored his four Shih Tzus — Tootsie, Boone, Sofie, and Willy — along with his cats, Sunday and Ebony, who brought him constant companionship and entertainment.

Gary wished for a quiet ending without ceremony or attention. He and Cyndie had long promised each other they would honor those wishes: cremation, no funeral, and no formal celebration of life, believing that their life together had already been a celebration. Their ashes will someday be spread together in a place sacred to them both.

For those who wish to honor Gary’s memory, the family asks that you simply help someone in need, use your talents to make the world a little better, or donate to an organization meaningful to you. Gary was grateful for every person who helped fill his life with purpose, friendship, and love. A private family ceremony will be held at a later date.