Gerald Lee Hess

Gary L. Hess was born September 22, 1954, in Terre Haute, Indiana, to Russell and Dorothy (nee Dennison) Hess and went to be with his Lord and parents on August 4, 2024.

He was raised in Paris, Illinois graduating from Paris High School in 1972 after which he attended and graduated from Millikin University in 1976. 

In his youth, Gary was a member of Boy Scouts of America, inducted into the Order of the Arrow, and went on to be a Cubmaster as an adult.

He worked many years in the trucking industry, holding jobs ranging from recruiting to safety and attaining the title of Vice President of Safety. He eventually opened his own recruiting company before moving south to Victoria Palms Resort in Donna, Texas, to spend more time with his parents. 

Gary married Karen Clark in 2014, and they enjoyed ten wonderful and special years together.

While living there, he quickly became known around the park for lending a hand, greeting with a smile at the guard shack, helping with yard maintenance, and watching over resident homes. Within a short time, he and his wife, Karen, opened VP Home Sales, helping retirees find their winter homes in the valley. 

He was full of life and pursued a multitude of interests. He worked hard and played hard, too.

He enjoyed fishing, golfing, camping, RVing, and traveling to visit family, exploring the country and especially taking quick getaways with Karen to the beach.

Gary was known as an accomplished chef, and he loved it immensely. Music was also his passion, whether playing trumpet & guitar early on in life, singing Karaoke at events in the park, or attending jams or concerts.

He was a kid at heart and loved playing with his thirteen grandchildren!

Gary was an avid supporter of college football, specifically his Alabama team (ROLL TIDE!). 

Gary was a Man of God. He was very active in the church, often singing in the choir, serving on the board, and delivering sermons for the various churches he attended over the years. 

He loved people and formed connections with everyone he met. He had an infectious smile and made everyone feel like family the moment they met him. He often hosted dinners and events for friends and family.

In addition to his beloved wife, Karen, Gary is survived by his sister, Mickey Englade of Donna, TX. His children are Katie Garcia (Miguel), Patty Clifford (Dustin), and JR Hess (Lora). His nephew is Eric Erchull (Ramona). His grandchildren are Aurianna, Trinity, KaiLani, Sebastian, Bryce, Ronin, Ryker, Olivia, Anton, Araceli, Jaina, Jenna, and Jaden.