Obituary of Gary L. Zmikly

Gary L. Zmikly, age 68, of Bentley, MI, passed away peacefully at home on February 5, 2025 with his family by his side. Gary was born on February 2, 1957, to the late Walter and Georgia Zmikly of Sanford, MI. He spent his career as a heavy equipment operator in the local area.  

Gary enjoyed fishing and hunting, snowmobiling, motorcycles, side-by-side rides, fixing anything with a motor in his “auto shop”, and baking goodies for every family party per everyone’s request. However, one of his favorite pastimes was playing fetch in the yard with his best pal Groot, along with taking him for rides to get one too many treats. Those who knew Gary knew he was a man of few words but famous for his one-liners. 

Gary is survived by his brother, Walter (Michelle) Zmikly; sisters, Paula (Kevin) Nilles and Karen (Jerry) Nizinski; daughter Holly Khun; his loving girlfriend of over 23 years, June McQuarter, and her daughters, Samantha (Joel) LaPan and Cassandra (Dana) Bock. Gary was also known as “Papa Gary” to his five grandchildren: Brynlee, Emmalyn, and Sawyer LaPan; Landyn McQuarter and Oakley Bock along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by both of his parents, Walter and Georgia.   

Per Gary’s request, cremation will take place, and no funeral services will be held at this time. He left this earth the way he wanted—with his motorcycle leathers in tow for “One Last Ride.” To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com  Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.