Gary L. McKennon

We are saddened to announce the passing of MSGT Gary L. McKennon, age 80, on August 20, 2021 at home surrounded by loved ones.

Gary was born August 19, 1941, in Flint, Michigan to Raymont and Virginia McKennon. He enlisted in the United States Air Force on September 17, 1959 and was serving in Big Spring, Texas when he meet his future wife, Barbara Kemp. They married on July 14 ,1960, and had two children in two years. They moved to Michigan where their third child was born. Gary spent time in Viet Nam and upon his return to the states, the family moved many times throughout the remainder of his military service.

Although his spent 20 years in the military, he was far more than his 20-years of service to our country. He was a jokester at heart and loved to laugh while making others laugh with him. He had a great love for woodworking and often complained that he didn't know where he was going to put his latest project, but refused to sell them stating that they were not 'good enough'. He was a two year Best in Show and Best in Category winner at the New Mexico State Fair. He was a collector of many things (vintage firearms, eagles, knives, dragons and of all things gnomes and frogs). He was a devoted family man that worried about his children into their adult years.

Gary is survived by his three children, Michael (Ruth) of Snellville, GA, Teresa (Randy) of Albuquerque, NM, and James (Bonnie) of Albuquerque, NM; four grandchildren, Steven (Terra) of Albuquerque, NM, Patrick of Walker, MN, David Cloven of Albuquerque, NM and Kasey of Albuquerque, NM; and three great-grandchildren, Talia, Conner and Hailey.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Raymont and Virginia; his brother, Karl O.; and his beloved wife of 58 years, Barbara (Kemp) McKennon.