Dates
Gary passed from this life on November 30, 2020 of complications from Covid-19 in Shannon Hospital. He spent much of his 78 years exploring the United States through his love of travel and vacations. He could spend hours on the computer searching for that perfect out-of-the-way stop or highly rated food dish. He was a gracious, fun-loving man who was quick to tell a story and share a laugh.
Gary was born in Waukon, Iowa on March 8, 1942 to Ralph and Stella Flage. He grew up on the family farm with his parents and younger brother, Dean. From there, he learned the value of a dollar and the reward of hard work, which he carried with him throughout his life. While attending high school in Waukon, Gary won State in extemporaneous speaking. Anyone who knew him would have agreed it was a reward well-earned.
Gary started his college education at the State College of Iowa in Cedar Falls, but dropped out upon his mother’s death and enlisted in the US Air Force. The Air Force sent him first to Syracuse University to study Russian Linguistics and then to Goodfellow AFB for security training. While stationed at Goodfellow, Gary met Marilyn Treadwell, his future spouse and lifelong travel partner.
Gary and Marilyn married on March 19, 1966. Soon after, the young couple were stationed at Elmendorf AFB in Alaska where their daughter, Karon, was born. Gary was honorably discharged from the Air Force in February 1968 and the small family lived in Tacoma Park, MD for several years. They returned to San Angelo in October 1970, just months before the birth of their son, Bruce.
Gary made his home in San Angelo and graduated from Angelo State University in May 1972. He worked for over 20 years at Nathan’s Jewelers, eventually becoming the store manager.
Gary enjoyed his work, but he especially loved representing Nathan’s Jewelers at stock shows all over West Texas. Gary was at his best when he was interacting with people and sharing his interests with others. Years after his leaving, people would still stop him to reminisce about his time with the jewelry store and attending stock shows. Upon the closure of Nathan’s Jewelers, Gary purchased Southwest Spa on Executive Drive. He enjoyed 10 years of great comradery with his many clients and friends.
Gary loved to travel. He and Marilyn both put great importance on visiting as much of the world as they were able. Together they visited all 50 states and many foreign countries during their 54 years of marriage. When he was not visiting a National Park, he could be found cheering on the ASU Rams and Rambelles at every game and match he could attend. In addition, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and volunteering for the San Angelo Stock Show and Angelo State University Athletics. Gary also spent numerous hours waging a personal war against all the squirrels that kept invading his backyard.
Gary was a lifelong Presbyterian and a current member of First Presbyterian Church. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn; daughter Karon of Arlington, Virginia; son Bruce and wife, Lynsey,
of San Angelo; grandchildren Colton and Holland of San Angelo; sister-in-law Trudy Flage of Rapid City, South Dakota; his brother Loren Miller and wife Becky of Lansing, Iowa; and Marilyn’s brothers John, Gary, & Donald Treadwell and their families. He joins in Heaven his parents and brother Dean.
Due to Covid-19, there will be no service at this time. Gary will be cremated and his ashes scattered on the family farm in Iowa. The family wishes any memorial contributions would be made to Angelo State Ram Club, ASU Station #11023, San Angelo, Texas 76909.