Gary Dale Pugh

Gary Dale Pugh, beloved husband, father, and brother, was born on January 11, 1961 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Robert Eugene and Marguerite Rae Pugh. He passed away at home the morning of January 24, 2023, surrounded by those who loved him. He is survived by his wife, Karen; his daughter, Alexandra; his brother Michael, and other extended family. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother David. 

A natural athlete, Gary played baseball, football, and basketball throughout his formative years. He also played clarinet in the marching band and later shared his love of music with his daughter, Alexandra. Gary was active in Boy Scouts and went on to earn his Eagle Scout. The youngest of three brothers, he grew up in a close-knit home and looked back fondly on family road trips, game nights, and summers at the lake.

After graduating with a Bachelors in Accounting from Oklahoma State University and passing the CPA exam, Gary was recruited by Deloitte and began a rewarding career in finance. He transitioned into industry after several years in public accounting, holding Vice President and Chief Financial Officer positions for much of his career. He enjoyed traveling the world for his professional endeavors, crisscrossing the globe from China to Germany to Italy to Slovenia, collecting friends and experiences as he went. Gary had the rare combination of intelligence, personality, principles, and love of people. He was a mentor whose wisdom and kindness will be forever missed by those he impacted. 

Gary’s love of outdoor adventure developed on backpacking trips during his youth and eventually led him to meet his wife, Karen, 31 years ago. “We met over a backpack,” they would laughingly say, and together they built a life they loved rich with friends, hiking adventures, laughter, and their best adventure, raising Alexandra. Gary adored Alexandra; he was the kind of dad who never missed a performance or an opportunity to be part of her life. Alongside his many personal qualities, Gary was a great family man. He deeply loved his girls and supported them in all their endeavors.

Gary made lifelong friends and connections. He is described by his friends as caring, generous, thoughtful, and easygoing. He never took himself too seriously and was known for his quick, clever wit and infectious laughter. Gary loved a good time, enjoying jazz and classic rock, sports – especially the St. Louis Cardinals, Settlers of Catan, his dog Uno, and good conversation with friends. He faced his battle with leukemia with characteristic bravery, spirit, and good humor – a true inspiration. 

Gary touched so many lives, and he will be remembered well in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.  His family will forever miss the joy of having him in their lives.

A memorial service celebrating Gary’s life will be held Saturday, February 4th at 4:00pm at Holy Spirit Episcopal Church, 12535 Perthshire Road, Houston, Texas 77024. 
 

As most of you know, Gary loved the Tetons.  Thank you for your tributes in his name to:
Grand Teton National Park Foundation.  www.gtnpf.org