On February 7, 2025, Gary Lee Creel, 77, of Kittanning (East Franklin Twp) was reunited with his wife, Judy, in Heaven.  Born August 14, 1947, Gary was the elder son of Clarence (Bud) and Hally (Sharpe) Creel. He was a 1965 graduate of Kittanning High School. Gary was employed by Robb Coal Company, then owned and operated Tires & More in Ford City from 1992 until his retirement in 2008.  Gary was a past member of the Keystone Kruisers Car Club, having owned a number of classic vehicles. He was a member of Faith Baptist Church, Kittanning for many years and more recently attended North Buffalo Grace Brethren Church. He was in the process of having a patent approved for an orthopedic animal support device he designed and produced when one of the family pets struggled with an inoperable leg tumor.

Gary was known for his work ethic, his willingness to stop whatever he was doing at any hour of the day/night to help others and his no-nonsense approach to life. He took pride in maintaining his property - mowing and often weed-eating as soon as or while the sun came up. He enjoyed tinkering around in his garage with anything that had a motor. In his mind, he was operating and repairing heavy equipment just days before taking his final breath.  Passersby already have noted the empty glider in front of the garage where he would drink his morning coffee, break from tasks or visit with neighbors.

Left with memories and the promise of being reunited for eternity are daughter, Marci Lyn Creel and son, Ryan (Chrissy) Creel. Brother, A. George Creel sister-in-law, Karen Nulph and niece, Tirzah (Pete) Harper. Gary was preceded in death by his parents and wife of 54 years, Judy (July 2024). 

Arrangements are private and under the care of the Snyder-Crissman Funeral Home in Kittanning.