- Date Of Birth: July 25, 1967
- Date Of Death: December 10, 2015
- State: Idaho
Gary Gerald Pietrok, 48 years old, earned his angel wings, far too soon on Thursday, December 10, 2015. Gary was born on July 25, 1967. He grew up in Arco, Idaho and joined the Air National Guard in 1985.
Gary was a warrior, decorated veteran, loving husband and father, adoring grandfather, and an authentic honorable man. He could easily be described as a pillar of strength for all who knew and loved him. He was referred to by many as the “Gentle Giant.” He was a Godly man and shared the love of Christ with his family. In recent months, Gary’s faith was more evident and his walk with God stronger. Gary was a man of his word and believed in living a life of honor. He was a lover of the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping. Gary was also a soldier and served numerous tours in Iraq and Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. He was proud of his country and wanted to make a difference. He was a man among men and was respected and admired by many. During his career he deployed more than 25 times.
Gary had two adult children, Jennifer (Woods) and Steven Pietrok, from his first marriage. He worked hard to support his children and care for them. He raised them by himself and was always there if they needed a hand after they began their own lives and new adventures. He adored these two gifts from God!
Gary met Jennifer (Glineski) in 2005 and they shared a love story that would change both of their lives forever. Gary and Jennifer married on December 18, 2005. Gary enjoyed leaving special notes on mirrors or in Jennifer’s car for her to find before work. He had a beautiful way with words and used that to write her love poems and letters.
Jennifer’s extended families were quick to welcome Gary and in no time at all he was loved deeply and a rooted part of their family. Gary and Jennifer were ecstatic to welcome a daughter, Olivia, to their family in 2008 and a son, Garrett, in 2009. Once again, Gary loved every part of being a dad – helping with homework, reading bedtime stories (snuggles included). He and Olivia loved going fishing with Daisy, the beloved family dog. He and Garrett had recently started going to cub scouts. Garrett treasured and looked forward to that time with his dad. Gary looked forward to his many phone calls with Jenny hearing about the grandkids, helping her with some of life’s decisions. He and Steven always were able to pick up just where they left off, as best buddies. The list is endless, just as his love for his kids was. They were his greatest life achievements.
Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Jennifer; their children, Jennifer (Bryan Woods), Steven (Markie), Olivia, and Garrett; grandkids, Hailee, Hunter, and Everley; his sister, Becky Pietrok; his beloved Aunt Donna (Jim Pollard); his father and mother-in-law, Butch and Gloria Glineski; his grandmothers; and many, many other family members who all loved him unconditionally.
