Gary Wisener

Gary Lee Wisener, age 87, peacefully entered Heaven on November 8th, 2024 with his family at his side in Blairsville, Ga where he moved in 2016. He was born on October 19th, 1937, in Dayton, OH, to the late Harold and Virginia Wisener. At the age of 8, he moved to Sarasota, FL with his family, a place that would become his treasured home. When he was a young boy, he was selected to be one of the bat boys for the Boston Red Sox as their spring training was held in Sarasota. During this time, he had the opportunity to meet and fish with the legendary Ted Williams. He attended Sarasota High School, where he met his future wife Linda LaHurd before graduating in 1955. After graduating high school, he made the noble decision to serve his country by joining the Army. Upon returning, he traded his military boots for baseball cleats, pursuing a career in baseball until an unfortunate knee injury ended his baseball career. In 1960, he married Linda and began a family. Gary made his name known in Sarasota, owning and operating two successful bars-Gary's and The Flamingo. To say he was loved and respected by his peers in his hometown is an understatement. Gary was not only a man of business but also a devoted family man. He shared a life with his loving wife, Linda for 64 years. Together, they discovered the beauty of the world in their trusty Winnebago, traveling through 48 states and creating cherished memories at every stop. Alaska held a special place in their hearts, a testament to the couple's adventurous spirit and their commitment to embracing life's journey together. Gary found joy in the simple pleasures of life, from fishing trips, to air boating, duck hunting, and frog gigging on Lake Okeechobee or just mowing the lawn. He was especially passionate about college sports, proudly waving the banner for his beloved Florida Gators. Gary was a die-hard fan, and while he reveled in their victories, he was equally vocal about his disappointment when they fell short. Above all, he valued the time spent with his family, creating lasting bonds that will forever remain in their hearts. He is survived by his loving wife Linda Wisener; children Cheri Wisener, Donna (Jim) Guess, Gary (Janet) Wisener Jr.; granddaughter Lauren (Michael) Collins; great-granddaughter Kennedy Collins; and sister Elsie McDonald, along with many other family members and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents Harold and Virginia Wisener, grandson Garrett Guess, siblings Joanne (Ed) Engle, Ed (Pat) Wisener, and Phyllis (Frank) Kroeker, along with many dear friends. Oh, what a joyous greeting committee he had waiting at the pearly gates!