Gary L. Bemis, of Tidioute, Pa. and formerly of North East, passed away peacefully at his home, June 10, 2013, surrounded by his loving wife of 50 years Sandra (Buell) and his son Corey, his special daughter-in-law Debbie, and his two granddaughters, Brandi and Nakota, who were the joys of his life. Gary is joining his son Timothy, who completed his journey in January of 1978.

Gary was born January 9, 1943 to Clarence W. Bemis (deceased) and Gladys Bemis, Erie, Pa. He is also survived by a son, Shawn E. Bemis of Bradford, Pa. and his three brothers and their wives Duane (Mary), Kevin (Patty), and Norm (Sue), brother-in-law, Larry Buell (Janice) of Corry, Pa. and many nieces and nephews.

Gary graduated from Academy High School Erie, Pa. class of 1960. He then went on to attend Devry Institute, Chicago, Illinois majoring in electronics. He joined the United States Air Force, working as a Ballistic Missile Analyst Specialist, while serving in the Air Force. Gary received two accommodations. After his discharge from the Air Force, he continued his work as a Missile Analyst with the Boeing Company of Seattle, Washington. Wanting to return to his roots, Gary acquired a position with General Electric, where he retired after 25 years of service. Gary built Lakeview Quarter Farm, North East, Pa. and started the Lakeview 4-H Club, which he dearly loved. Gary was also appointed to the Erie County Sheriff's Posse Search and Rescue, which he enjoyed. Gary's greatest compassion was hunting and fishing.

After his retirement, he moved to the mountains of Forest County, Pa. The winters were spent in Florida, boating and fishing.

Friends may call at the William D. Elkin Funeral Home, 65 South Lake St., North East on Saturday at 11:30 a.m. till time of funeral services at 1:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Officiating Fr. Thomas Brooks. Interment Wales Cemetery with Full Military Honors. A celebration of life will be held in west Hickory, Pa. at a later date.

Memorials may be made to West Hickory Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 8, West Hickory, PA 16370. Of which Gary was a past member, or to Hospice of Crawford County, 310 N. Monroe St., Titusville, PA 16354. For all the comfort and help given to Gary. Please send condolence to www.elkinfh.com. Published in the Erie Times-News on June 13, 2013.