Gary Storrier, aka DB, passed away peacefully a day short of Veterans Day at Veterans Hospital in Syracuse. He was 72 years old.
After growing up in Mattydale, Gary enlisted in the US Navy and served our country proudly in Beachmasters Unit One as a radio operator during the Vietnam War. His tenure in the service left him with a deep commitment toward veterans, the flag, and events like the Memorial Day "Watch Fire".
Following his discharge, Gary earned a degree from SUNY Oswego, spent a year teaching, then worked a variety of jobs while majoring in enjoying life and entertaining his many friends. Nothing was too off limits; everything was a potential for a good time. After all, there was SU football and basketball, the Giants, the Big East Tournament, spring breaks in Florida, annual golf trips with the boys, coed and men's softball, broom ball, the regatta, concerts, Cape Cod in the summer, Jamaica, the Glen, and all the other fun opportunities our little town has to offer. He lent his unique sense of humor and infectious laugh (along with other unmentionable antics) to each and every one of them. And, in case you were wondering, he earned the nickname "Dirt Ball", respectfully.
Beyond all the crazy (ness), however, there was another side of Gary that complemented his makeup. He was an individual who cared deeply about everyone and everything. He rescued a stray dog from the streets, brought home blind kittens from the shelter, and wrote countless 'letters to the editor" protesting injustices. Whenever someone needed something, he never hesitated to help. There are still outstanding "loans" out there that will remain uncollected. Empathy: Check! Generosity: Check!!
Gary is survived by a large family who love him unconditionally and will forever cherish his memory. DB was indeed one of a kind. He leaves behind his ever-loving and loyal wife of forty years, Joyce. The rest of us include the matriarch, Mary "Maude" Storrier; six siblings: Lynn (Tom) McIver, Robert (Sharon) Storrier, Lee (Robert) Deegan, Lori (Jack) Green, Lu (Mike) McCartin, and Leslie (Joey) Chavez: nephews Jeffrey (Danielle) Storrier and Gregor (Lexy) McIver, and niece Dana (Ben) Jackson; and grand nephews and nieces Sarah, Emily, Oliver, Henry, and Isabella.
A private military burial will be held at the Onondaga Veterans Memorial Cemetery. There are no calling hours. Friends are invited to visit with the family and share remembrances at Twin Trees III, North Syracuse, beginning at 1pm on December 9.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Gary Storrier's name may be made to support k9sforwarriors.org or the CNY SPCA, 5878 E. Molloy Rd., Syracuse, 13211.
To leave a message of condolence for Gary's family, or to share a special memory of Gary visit the guestbook below.