Feb. 4, 1948 - Feb. 22, 2013
LYNN - The Rev. Gary D. Meek, 65, of Lynn, passed away peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior Friday morning, Feb. 22, 2013, at Reid Hospital.
Gary was born on Feb. 4, 1948, in Elkhart to Howard D. and Lois J. Reed Meek.
Gary graduated from Wakarusa High School in 1966. He entered the U.S. Air Force and served as an MP in Vietnam, where he rose to the rank of sergeant.
Gary was married to the former Lena J. Walker on June 6, 1970.
Gary graduated from United Wesleyan College in Allentown, Pa., and began a 32-year ministry. He first served at Elkhart Wesleyan Church before moving to New Hope Church in Lewisville. He served in Lynn the past 22 years in what is now called Lighthouse Wesleyan Church.
He was a devoted community member, serving as president of the Lynn Town Council and the Lynn Ministerial Association. He was a life member of Vietnam Veterans of America and was active in local Chapter 777 in Richmond and was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars in Lynn.
Gary was an avid Notre Dame Football fan. He enjoyed woodworking, singing, camping and hiking, and had taken up fishing late in life. He also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. Gary never knew a stranger and was always a very compassionate soul who was willing to help anyone in need.
Gary will be missed by his wife of 42 years, Lena Meek; sons and daughters-in-law, Philip and Rebecca Meek of Marion, Brian and Wendy Meek of New Castle, and Jeffrey and Robin Meek of Hagerstown, Md.; foster son Shane Fisher of Lehighton, Pa.; five grandchildren and two more on the way; twin brother Jerry Meek of Nappanee; sisters Linda DeMien of Nappanee and Gayle Griffee of Elkhart; and 17 nieces and nephews.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Wendy Martin and Kathy Rowe.
Family and friends may gather for visitation from 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 28, 2013, at Fountain City Wesleyan Church, 5600 U.S. 27 N., Richmond. Dr. Steven Emery will conduct the life celebration service at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 28, 2013, at the church. Military rites will be conducted in honor of Gary's service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to a memorial fund for Gary payable to Lena Meek, P.O. Box 407, Lynn, IN 47355.
The Smith & McQuiston Funeral Home, Fountain City, is handling arrangements.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.smithmcquistonwebster.com.