Gary A. Clure Jr., 62

Gary A. Clure Jr., 62, of Stevens Point, passed away Jan. 6, 2025, at House of the Dove in Marshfield.

Gary was born Nov. 23, 1962, in Milwaukee to the late Gary Sr. and Carole (née McRae) Clure. Born three months premature, Gary was rumored to have been brought home in a shoebox, small enough to fit in the palm of a hand. Despite his early arrival, Gary thrived, developing a lifelong passion for learning. He enjoyed reading encyclopedias and building models, including the USS Constitution and the Invisible Man. His family later moved to Rhinelander and then Neillsville before settling in Stevens Point, where Gary attended Madison Elementary, and P.J. Jacobs Junior High School, and graduated from Stevens Point Area Senior High in 1981.

Gary’s love for learning showed in his excellent grades, and he was known as a talented artist who enjoyed spending time with friends. After high school, he continued working at Sentry, where he dedicated 46 years and rose through the company’s ranks. His hard work allowed him to purchase his own home, where he proudly adopted Abe, a cat with a heart condition, and later welcomed Louie, a stray cat from Stevens Point.

In his younger years, Gary played softball and bowled in a league, though he famously refused to buy his own bowling shoes. He was a beloved brother, uncle, and friend who enjoyed spending time with loved ones watching movies, listening to music, or golfing. Known for his sharp wit, generous spirit, and unwavering support for the underdog, Gary always stood by those in need.

He is survived by his brother, Jim Clure of Stevens Point; his sisters, Anne (Sean) Van Lysal of Wisconsin Rapids and Sara (Troy) Stelzer of Kronenwetter; his nieces, Jessica (Brett) Bayless of Aurora, Colo., and Hannah (Kevin) Siemen of Wisconsin Rapids; his nephews, Todd Pitsch of Wisconsin Rapids, Andrew (Isasia) Van Lysal of Wisconsin Rapids, and Patrick Stelzer of Kronenwetter; a great-niece, Alaina Pitsch; and several aunts and uncles.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his maternal and paternal grandparents; and an uncle, Chuck Reimer.

The family extends special thanks to the palliative care team at UW Health, including Dr. Dey, Dr. Howard, Andy Land, RN, BSN, OCN, and Fr. John, as well as the staff at House of the Dove in Marshfield.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Gary’s honor to the Humane Society of Portage County or the Glioblastoma Research Organization.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 17, 2025, at Shuda Funeral Chapel, 3200 Stanley St., Stevens Point. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Shuda Funeral Chapel is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.shudafuneral.com.