Gary Finkbeiner, 74, of Wayland died Sept. 24, in Rockford after a long battle with lung cancer.
Gary was an outspoken man, and you always knew were you stood with him. At his core, Gary was a kind and caring man with a big heart. Nothing mattered more to him than his family!
Gary is survived by his son, Derek Finkbeiner, and his daughter, Krista Rogers, and his two grandsons, Colin (7) and Carter (4). He was preceded in death by his father, Richard (Ty) Finkbeiner, and his mother, Ruth Finkbeiner.
After graduating from Wayland High School as valedictorian, Gary pursued higher education at Michigan State University where he graduated with degrees in chemistry and economics. He joined the Army Reserves, where he served our country for several years. Gary went on to earn his Juris Doctorate from Southern Methodist University in Dallas..
Upon graduating, Gary moved back to to started a successful law career. He worked as an assistant prosecutor for Eaton County, and later became an Assistant Attorney General for the State of Michigan, until his retirement in 2002. He worked alongside the DNR and DEQ to represent the interests of the State of Michigan.
After his retirement, Gary went on to live the life he always wanted. He spent several years living in Florida with his feet in the sand, the warm sun on his face and a cold beer in his hand. He loved spending time with his friends, fishing and watching MSU football and basketball. But nothing brought him more joy and happiness than being around his grandchildren!
Per Gary’s wishes, there will be no service or visitation. Contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society in his memory.
