Gary Leo Messinger

Messinger, Gary Leo Muskegon, Michigan Gary Leo Messinger, age 69, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 20, 2021 in Winter Haven, Florida. He was born in Muskegon, Michigan on November 8, 1951 to Shirley Eilers. After her untimely death in 1952, he was adopted by Shirley's mother Clara (ne Schiller) and Clara's second husband Mark Messinger. Gary graduated from Muskegon Catholic Central in 1969 and worked in retail management most of his life. For the last several years, he very much enjoyed his work as an RV Park Host at his daughter's business, Duck Creek RV Resort, where he spent lots of time with his four granddaughters. One of Gary's greatest accomplishments (besides his children and grandchildren) occurred on July 12, 1969. Aided by his good friend and classmate Pete Gawkowski, Gary helped rescue three people after their boat crashed into the south breakwater at Pere Marquette Park in Muskegon. For their bravery, Gary and Pete received multiple commendations, the most notable being the Silver Lifesaving Medal from the U.S. Coast Guard. Gary enjoyed watching and playing multiple sports, especially golf, and liked a wide range of movies, TV shows, and music. He had an excellent sense of humor and told dad jokes long before they were a thing. SURVIVORS Survivors include two sons, Jacob "Jake" Messinger of Muskegon, Adam (Tessa) Messinger of Muskegon; a daughter, Casey (Roger) Jourden of North Muskegon; five grandchildren, Addison, Ella, Hannah, Kelsey, and Grant; a brother Mark "Doug" Messinger of Michigan; and a sister Diane Colini of Florida. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Dale and Duane. SERVICE A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date at Duck Creek RV Resort. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to leave a memory or sign the online guestbook.