UPDATED GRAVESIDE NOTICE: A graveside ceremony, with military honors, will take place Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at 11 a.m. at Gansevoort Cemetery with the Rev. Natalie Wimberly officiating.

QUEENSBURY --- Gary P. Lanphear, 80, passed away after battling a long illness on Saturday, December 23, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He battled cancer for many years. Gary's courage and strength will never be forgotten.

Born May 18, 1943 in Ballston Spa, he was the son of Paul and Dorothy (Gifford) Lanphear.

Married Cecilia (Merlow) at South Glens Falls Methodist Church.

Gary graduated from South Glens Falls High School and attended one year of college.

Gary enlisted into the United States Marines in 1962, served in the Vietnam War, and was honorably discharged in 1966 as a Sergeant, E-5. Most recently, he was a supervisor at Finch Pryne for thirty years.

Gary was a loyal husband, father, brother, and brother-in-law. He worked hard to ensure that all his family's needs were met. He was a man of all trades and was willing to do whatever it takes. He enjoyed cooking, working on his cousin Billie's farm and spending time with his family. Gary was passionate about his military service, and had a very special bond with his grandson Anthony, they were best buddies.

Gary's hobbies included camping, boating on the ocean, cooking, and most importantly he enjoyed helping his friends and family.

In addition to his parents, Gary was predeceased by a brother, Bruce Lanphear, a sister, Cheryl Lanphear, and other extended family members.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Cecilia Lanphear; daughter, Michelle (John) Beckwith; grandchildren, Anthony, John, and Sierra; great-grandchild, Kimani; sisters, Julie and Sharon (Larry); in-laws, Peter (Phyllis) Merlow, Carlin (Harry) McDonald, and John (Dorothy) Powhida; nieces, nephews and cousins, Harry (Paulette) Michael, Lynn, Wendy (Ron), Stacey (Al), and Stephanie (Dusty); and his dog, Snooka, whom he loved very much.

Per Gary's request, there will be no calling hours or funeral. Friends are invited to join the family for a graveside ceremony in the spring at Gansevoort Cemetery, with military honors.

The family wishes to extend a sincere thank you to Rev. Natalie Wimberly, Carlin and Harry McDonald, Peter and Phyllis Merlow, Julie P., his devoted daughter Michelle, and his dear friends.

In loving memory of Gary, contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.

Condolences may be sent directly to Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury, NY 12804, or through www.bakerfuneralhome.com.