Gary Bruce Behrens, 78, of Londonderry, NH, passed away Friday, February 9, 2024, at the Elliot Hospital in Manchester, NH. He was born on July 28, 1945, in Malden, MA, a son of the late Max and Lorraine (Croteau) Behrens.
Gary was a beloved and proud husband, father, papa, great-papa, brother, and friend. He was a beautiful person who had the deepest love for his family. He was loving, encouraging, and supportive and it was his greatest joy being with his family and seeing them happy.
Gary graduated from Malden High School and following that, he served his country by enlisting in the US Navy. He had a lifelong passion for aviation and trains and held positions at several companies including Piedmont Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and Amtrak.
Gary was a huge sports fan and loved a good debate about teams, especially his beloved New York Yankees. He never missed an opportunity to discuss baseball with his family of (mostly) Red Sox fans. He proudly wore his Yankees hat all over New England.
Gary had a deep love for animals, particularly black bears and labs. He developed a strong bond with his son’s dog, Bear, and even wrote a poem for him. Gary also strongly believed in the spirit of the natural world. He had a very strong interest in, and appreciation for, Native American History. He had an especially deep respect for the Sioux and enjoyed spending time visiting reservations.
Gary made an impression on all who knew him with his charisma and talent for conversation. He quickly made friends wherever he went. He loved being the center of attention and entertaining others with his antics, especially at Poor Boy’s Diner (his home away from home) and with his three cherished great-granddaughters. In line with his character, Gary lived his life in his own unique way and apologized to no one for it.
Gary leaves a legacy of countless memories, stories, incidents, and experiences that will live on forever in those who love him.
Gary is survived by his loving wife Georgette “Gigi” Behrens of Londonderry, NH; two sons, Phillip M. Behrens and his wife Rachel of Athol, MA, and Dennis M. Behrens of Nashua, NH; daughter, Karen J. McCarthy and her husband Barry of Manchester, NH; two sisters, Susan Webster of Londonderry, NH, and Diane Behrens of Hudson, NH; six grandchildren including Jennifer Behrens, and Justin (Janet), Jenna (Chuck), and Jordan (Allison) McCarthy; and three great-granddaughters Waverley and Wakeley Wise, and McKinley McCarthy.
Gary was predeceased by his granddaughter, Kimberly Behrens; and grandson, Nicholas Behrens.
Following cremation there are no services scheduled at this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.