Gary E. Fuller, 67, of Wamego, KS passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 20, 2012 at his home following a courageous battle with cancer.

Gary was born January 29, 1945 in Denver, CO, the son of Eugene and Freda Fuller. He graduated from Englewood High School and attended junior college for a short time. Gary served in the U.S. Coast Guard for 20 years including a tour of duty in Vietnam. He received numerous commendations for his military service. Gary had the rank of Chief Petty Officer at the time of his retirement in 1987. Following his service, he had a second career as a farrier in Mobile, AL. Gary moved to Wamego, KS in 2003.

Gary had a range of interests. He enjoyed the outdoors, particularly any opportunity to fish. Gary remained a master mechanic, building two hot rods and displaying them in car shows. He also was known for his artistic abilities, creating unique designs from copper and iron.

Gary is survived by his children who include Cori Krause, Daphne, AL, Cheryl Jones (Chris), Mobile, AL, Bob Garcia (Jane), Manhattan, KS, Jeff Garcia, Phoenix, AZ, and Diane Lukens (Fred), Phoenix, AZ; his former wife, Kelly Carriere, Phoenix, AZ; his brother, Gregg Fuller (Karlene), Arvada, CO; and several grandchildren. Gary was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial service will be held at the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery at Fort Riley, 5181 Wildcat Creek Road, Manhattan, KS, on Tuesday, May 29 at 10 a.m. The family will host a reception in his honor immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (www.vvmf.org). Donations may be left in care of Stewart Funeral Home, P.O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.