Gary Zook

Gary Zook of Fountain Hills passed away on July 9, 2015.

Gary was born on Aug. 3, 1946 in Colorado Springs and was a long-term resident of the familiar “West Side” he called home.

Paul and Lorraine Zook raised four children, Gary being the eldest. He is survived by his sister Diana and brother Rick. His sister Georgia preceded him in death.

Being a native of Colorado Springs, Gary attended Palmer High School, Lamar Community College and later attended CSU in Ft. Collins studying animal science. Gary was active in rodeo and at a young age joined the U.S. Army and served for his country during the Vietnam War.

Gary met his wife Brenda after returning from the war in 1972 and they were married in 1973.

Gary, along with his dad, had many adventures from inventing a dental floss tool to mining gold in Panama. While these adventures were dreams of fame and fortune, Brenda supported her husband and dreamed right along with him. Gary was an entrepreneur in every way. His sales skills were top notch, from cars to sunglasses, he could sell anything.

After returning home from their adventures, Gary and Brenda settled down and started their family. Linsey, their first, was the apple of her daddy’s eye. After four years, Adam came along, which fulfilled his lifelong dream of making their family complete and continuing the Zook name.

Later, Linsey met the love of her life, Brian Markle. Brian followed tradition by asking for Linsey’s hand in marriage. Gary was never more proud than walking his daughter down the aisle.

Adam has Gary’s sense of adventure. Not only was he Gary’s fishing companion, but they were always concocting their next adventure. Adam blessed Gary and Brenda with a grandson, Connor, who brought many smiles to their face over the past year and a half.

Gary will forever be missed by his family and friends. His infectious laugh and adventurous spirit will always be remembered.

Gary’s loving wife and children celebrated his life with many friends on July 18 in Fountain Hills. His final wish was to return home to Colorado where he will forever rest peacefully.