Gary William Mein

Gary William Mein, aged 76, passed away on September 7, 2024, peacefully at home after a brief illness. He was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, on July 24, 1948, to Bernard "Bud" Mein and Anna Belle Dykstra Mein who both preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Nancy Ritchie Mein, their children, Jason (Samantha) Mein and Suzanne (Erik) Kratochwill, and a much-loved grandson, Cameron Mein. Also surviving is his sister, Shirley Mein Umphrey, and his brother, Bernard (Cynthia) Mein, and their extended families.

Gary was a lifelong resident of the Portage, Michigan, area as well as a summer resident of Saugatuck, Michigan, for the past 51 years. His love of "big" water, which he shared with his wife and passed on to his children and grandson, was a defining factor in his life. Whether in it, on it, or under it, as a family we shared many adventures boating, fishing, and diving in Lake Michigan, as well as in the Florida Keys, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Gary and Nancy loved to travel, and through the years have developed treasured friendships with their Mexican "family" in Cabo San Lucas, as well as their Sergeant Marina "family" in Saugatuck. He was a very generous man who considered himself very fortunate and did truly enjoy the journey of life.

Gary was a warm, compassionate, curious, and creative man who lived his life according to the adage "everyone has to win" regardless of whether it was in his business or personal relationships. He had a fun-loving spirit and liked nothing better than a good practical joke. As a polio survivor who did suffer lifelong aftereffects, he would urge vaccinations, as well as remembering that "forever is not as long as it used to be" so hug your loved ones and go out and enjoy your life! He will be terribly missed by his family and friends alike.

In honor of his wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no memorial service or visitation. For anyone wishing to make a memorial donation in Gary's name, please consider The Ocean Conservancy or The Alliance for the Great Lakes.