EAST POLAND — Howard Warren Gary, 60, of East Poland, died on Saturday, Dec. 18, at his home surrounded by loving family and friends.

He was born on Feb. 7, 1950, the son of Wilfred and Dorothy (Thurston) Gary. He graduated from Edward Little High School in 1968, and after high school he joined the Armed Forces where he received an honorable discharge from the Air National Guard in 1974. He was a lineman for Verizon (previously New England Telephone and Nynex), from 1970 – 1996 and then he worked for Dead River Oil Co.

He dedicated his life to Empire Grove Campmeeting Association as manager and groundskeeper for more than 25 years. His multi-talents were inspiring to all who knew him and showed his vibrancy of living. He offered his stability, reverence, spirituality and creativity with his own sense of humor. He was also part of the recreation dept., and involved with Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Androscoggin County.

Howard could build anything and everything. He enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren and with his wife, with whom he built a house. He also enjoyed playing cribbage, hiking and camping, fishing with his friends and ice hockey games.

He is survived by his wife, Deborah (Estes) Gary; daughter, Krista (Gary) Atwood; three stepdaughters, Katie (McAllister) Libby, Kristina (McAllister) Wilson and Kayla Nowell; three sons-in-law, Gary Atwood, Corey Libby and Eric Wilson; brother, Arthur Gary; two grandsons, Benjamin Atwood and Cooper Libby; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, Wilfred and Dorothy (Thurston) Gary; and his brother, Richard Gary.

Condolences may be expressed at Funeralalternatives.net.