Gary A. “Bear” Berry, Sr.

Gary was born November 12, 1959 to Edward and Patricia (Rice) Berry. Gary was a lifelong resident of Marquette and attended Marquette Area Public Schools. Gary preferred to spend his time at camp in Big Bay. He loved being out in the woods in the middle of nowhere, it was common to find him wandering among the trees with his best four-legged friend, Fred. Gary was an avid hunter and fisherman. Gary was always working on something, he was a jack of all trades from mechanics to carpentry and everything in between. If he didn’t know how to do something, he would work at it until he figured it out front to back. That skill came in handy while working many years at N &N Trucking.

Gary was a generous person always willing to lend a hand and his skills to family friends, and even strangers.

Gary loved to laugh, drive anything with a motor, was an amazing cook, loved to spend time with family and friends, and loved to watch black and white tv shows. Andy Griffith, Gilligan’s Island, I Love Lucy, Bewitched and The Twilight Zone are among many his children fondly remember watching along side of him.

Gary is survived by his life partner of 42 years Jacqueline Spitz, son Gary Berry Jr, daughters Sammi Spitz, Amanda (Marlowe) Murray. Grandchildren Michael, Steven, Hunter, Alex, Samyah, Zaelyn, Jakarri, Ayden, Marlowe Jr, Marquise, Harlynn as well as the many kids that called him Grandpa Bear. Also surviving is his sister Debbie Carlstrom, his aunt Karen Azbell, his nephew Edwin Jr (Michelle), nieces Elyse, Mallorie, Maranda; great nieces and nephews Mariah, Brian, Jordyn, London, Kaleb, Mateo and Kendrick.

He is also survived by many friends that have loved him along the way.

Proceeding Gary in death are his parents, his brother Michael Berry, brother-in-law Edwin Carlstrom, his much loved dogs – Ralph, Bubba, Prada, Buster, and Onyx as well as many family and friends over the years.

The family of Gary extends our gratitude to the staff of UPHS and UP Home Health and Hospice for taking care of him during this difficult time.

Family and friends are welcome to join us to celebrate the life of Gary on April 12, 2024 at Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services. Visitation starts at 1:30 pm with services at 3:00 pm. Please come as you are as we send off Gary with stories, laughs, dark humor and Rock & Roll.

Condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.