84 of Portage, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on April 15, 1939 in Johnstown, the son of Chester Sr. and Anna (Novotny) Stager.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Karen Lee (Trusik), his children: David and Kimberly Stager, his grandson: Tyler Flynn, his brothers: Philip (France’), Chester Jr. (Kathy), his sisters: Betty (Paul Rusnak), Leona (Dean Scott) and Joann (Robert Smith).
Gary is survived by his children: Jeffrey Stager (Amanda Lipsinic), Trisha (Charles Slebodnick), Lisa Stager and Joshua Smith. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren and great nieces and nephews.
Gary was the last surviving child of Chester Stager Sr., founder of Stagers Store. He was part owner for over 40 years. Gary, his father and his brothers were dedicated to the family business and were proud serving the community. Gary loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He always put others before himself. He was a humble, quiet man. He loved hunting and fishing, spending time with his family, from cook outs, vacations, to going to the Stager Family camp up fishing creek. He enjoyed watching Pirate, Steeler and Penguins games. He loved classic antique cars. He owned several and loved to show them off at car shows.
Family and Friends will be received from 4 to 8 PM on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 at the Matthew R. Decort Funeral Home Inc. in Portage. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 AM on Wednesday, August 30, 2023 at Holy Family Catholic Church in Portage, Fr. Thomas Stabile. Committal will be held at St. Marys Cemetery in New Germany.
The Stager Family would like to thank Gary’s caregivers for their support, compassion and dedication to the family at this difficult time. This includes Lloyd, Noel, Windber Hospice nurses and aides. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Gary’s name to St. Judes Childrens Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 and/or Paralyzed Veterans of America, 1875 Eye Street, Suite 1100, Washington, DC 20006. Online condolences may be made at www.decortfh.com
To send flowers or plant a tree in memory of Gary B. Stager, visit the Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Visitation
29
Aug
532 Main Street
Portage, PA 15946
Service
30
Aug
509 Caldwell Avenue
Portage, PA 15946
Cemetery Details
Location
1635 New Germany Road
Summerhill, PA 15958
