George A. Gard, Jr.

George worked as a Heavy Equipment Mechanic for the New York State Department of Transportation Hamburg and Mayville, for over 30 years. He also owned and operated his own equipment repair in Silver Creek “Geo. Gard Equipment Repair”. George was a model plane flying enthusiast and past president of the Hamburg Flying Knights. He & his wife raised foster children and he enjoyed riding motorcycles, boating and ultra-light flying.

Survivors include his wife of almost 55 years, Betty J. (Kennedy) Gard of Silver Creek, whom he married on May 3, 1969, in Dunkirk, two daughters, Jennifer (Eric) Pearson, of California; Leeanne (Justin West) Gard, of Ohio; and two brothers, Charles Roger (Roberta) Gard and Timothy Gard. Also surviving are four grandchildren Kaylea & Joseph Pearson and Raegan & Carson West, special family members Peggy Gard, Karen & Jason Gard and several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents he was predeceased by a brother Edward Gard and three sisters Rita Zielinski, Eunice Gard and Lois Gard.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The family suggests memorials may be made to Silver Creek Fire Dept. Emergency & Rescue Squad, 162 Central Avenue, Silver Creek, NY 14136.

Arrangements are by Riles & Woolley Funeral Home, Forestville. To post condolences or memories go to www.rilesandwoolleyfuneral home.com.