Gary Allen Green

Gary Allen Green, age 84 of Grand Haven, passed away on Thursday, May 18, 2023 in Grand Rapids, MI, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on December 6, 1938, in Clearfield, PA, the beloved son of Alfred and Berna (Dunlap) Green. Preceding him in death were his parents, as well as his four brothers: Howard, Brent, Tom, and Bill, along with his sister Audrey.

Gary and Ann were blessed with three children: Beth (John) Johnson, Bob Green, and Nancy (Craig) Buchanan. Gary cherished family and found immense joy in his role as a parent and grandparent. He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion through his eight grandchildren: Nick, Corey, Andrew, Hallie, Mary, Madeline, Hannah, and Christian; and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Deanna Bradford; and numerous nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart.

Gary graduated from Wayne Memorial High School in 1957 and continued his education by earning a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Olivet College in 1961. During his time at Olivet, he was a member of the Phi Alpha Pi fraternity, Comet football team, and the Olivet choir. He furthered his academic achievements by obtaining a Master's degree in History from Eastern Michigan University and an Education Specialist degree in Administration from Wayne State University.

In July 1960, Gary married Ann Hallie Camburn, and together they built a beautiful life in Westland, MI. They enjoyed their summer home at Houghton Lake and eventually moved to Tellico Village, TN, where they made lasting friends over the 15 years they spent there. Eventually, they returned to Grand Haven, Michigan where they currently reside and have many special neighbors and friends.

Throughout his professional life, Gary made a significant impact as a dedicated teacher and coach in the Wayne Westland community. He spent 34 years imparting knowledge and shaping the lives of students at Wayne Memorial High School, Nankin Mills Junior High, Marshall Junior High, and Franklin Junior High. As a coach, he mentored young athletes in football and baseball, leaving a lasting impression on their lives.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Gary had a variety of hobbies that brought him great pleasure. He enjoyed playing golf, watching sports on TV, and traveling across the country with his family. He held a special affection for college football, particularly the University of Michigan and Tennessee Volunteers. Along with his love for history and sports he spent his time watching old westerns, being entertained by the Three Stooges, and indulging in his homemade popcorn and Manhattans. He found joy in dancing, sharing stories, singing, and whistling, all of which brought him closer to his loved ones.

Gary will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him. His warm spirit, unwavering love, and zest for life will forever live on in the hearts of his family and friends. May he find eternal peace, and may his cherished memories bring comfort to those left behind.

A Celebration of Gary's life will be held on Saturday, July 15, 2023, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Jefferson-Barns Community Vitality Center, Westland, MI.

A local Celebration of Gary's life will be held on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. (with a toast at 4:15 in honor of Gary) at the Grand Haven Elks Lodge.

Friends and family are invited to attend and share in the remembrance of a remarkable individual.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Olivet College: Phi Alpha Pi (see address below).

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