Gary P. Tanner

Gary Paul Tanner was born on December 13, 1946 in Watertown, New York.  In his 77 years, he created a legacy of love and dedication to his family, laughter, and generosity. He could always be counted on to help out in a bind whether it was picking up grandchildren from school, watching your dog or navigating the car buying process.  He was present, and usually 15 minutes early, to every game, dance recital and family event for his daughters and grandchildren and took great pride in their accomplishments.

He is survived by his two daughters, Brenda Crews (Sherman Steig) and Sandy Strohmeyer and their mother, his ex-wife Karen Tanner, four grandchildren Taylor (Brandon), Lindsey, Julia and Kyle and three great-grandchildren Chloe, Alayna and Kyler. Gary is also survived by his two brothers Tim Tanner (Sue) and Ric Tanner, as well as nieces Jennifer (Todd), Jamie, Morgan, Harlee, Emma and nephews Carson and Kaden. He was preceded in death by his parents Gert Gotham Tanner (Harry Eliopoulos), and Paul Tanner, nephew Jimmy Tanner, son-in-law Richard Crews and sister-in-law Ann Tanner.

Gary found his love for baseball early on, playing passionately at Indian River High School and in early college years. Beyond sports, he was active in band as a trumpet player and enjoyed the camaraderie of a large group of friends. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from the State University of New York at Brockport in August 1974. Earning his degree was a lifetime accomplishment, a pursuit he instilled in his daughters and grandchildren.

Gary had a rich and varied career, beginning at Eastman Kodak in Sales, a position that took the family to Louisiana and Texas where the circle of friends continued to grow.  His skill in sales continued at Plano Lincoln Mercury and later, he owned several restaurants and bars. Perhaps one of his favorite roles was that of a Plano ISD bus driver. For many years he drove the Plano East High School Band to Friday night games as well as hundreds of children to school each day. The amazing group of friends he gained as a bus driver is treasured. He loved attending the Wednesday dinner group. After he retired, his desire to meet new people was fulfilled as a part-time Uber driver.

Known for his love of fun, Gary was an avid golfer in his younger years. The golf course was his happy place. The Tanner Girls as they were known have memories of days at the pool, driving the golf cart and charging snacks to Dad’s account. He loved 60's music and there was always dancing and singing to go along with it! Gary was a dedicated fan of the Texas Rangers, New York Giants, and golfer Jordan Spieth. When he no longer played, golf was always on TV, a passion that culminated in a memorable trip to The Masters with his daughters in 2017.

Gary was known for his generosity with friends and family and his smile that could light up a room. Friends and family remember his laugh and speak of how they can still hear him today. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held to honor Gary’s life at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2700 W. Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano, Texas 75023.  The family invites you to join us for a reception following the services to share memories and celebrate his impact. To join the service live via webcast: https://youtube.com/live/35LcACUYYaU?feature=share

Please direct memorials in Gary’s memory to the National Kidney Foundation https://support.kidney.org/give