Gary R Gillen

Guilderland – Gary R. Gillen, 82, passed away at home surrounded by his family on Friday, February 11th, 2022 after a long battle with cancer. Gary was born in Schenectady and grew up in Guilderland. He was the son of the late Howard and Marie Karas Gillen. Gary graduated from Christian Brothers Academy in 1957 and was recruited by the University of Miami to play baseball. He later went on to attend Siena College. Gary was a 20-year Army Reservist, retiring in 2000. He had an enjoyable 30 year career as a printer for Schenectady Herald, and later found his way to his second love, driving school bus for Guilderland Central Schools where he was lovingly referred to as “Mr. Gary.” Gary was an avid sportsman who had a deep love for the New York Yankees, the game of golf and bowling. For 15 years he coached his kid’s softball and baseball teams. Gary was the ultimate family man. Whether taking yearly family trips to Myrtle Beach or camping at Fish Creek, Gary was happiest surrounded by those he loved (including his kid’s friends who adored him.) He was a member of the Guilderland Elks, American Legion 1493 and was a longtime member of Lynnwood Reformed Church, where he served as a deacon for several years. Gary leaves behind his beloved wife, Sandra Miller Gillen, whom he married on September 9th, 1967; his children, Alicia Gillen (Kelly), Bonnie Selfridge and Mark Gillen (Linda); grandchildren, Matthew, Hailey, Michael and Ava Selfridge and Leyton and Brayden Gillen as well as his sister, Beth Heitzman and several nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday from 3:30-5:30pm at the DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home, 5216 Western Turnpike, Guilderland. A memorial service will begin at 5:30pm at the funeral home. If you are unable to attend the calling hours, all are welcome to join Gary’s family at the reception at 6pmat Lynnwood Reformed Church. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123 or to Community Hospice, 445 New Karner Rd., Albany, NY 12205.