Gary J. Stanhope

Gary J. Stanhope, 86, passed away Friday, November 6, 2020, in Thermopolis, Wyo.

Born in March of 1934 in South Dakota, he was the son of Howard and Nellie (Nollie) Stanhope. Growing up in Montana, he was drafted into the US Army after dropping out of school after his junior year of high school. Before being shipped to Korea he married his childhood sweetheart, Jean, in Baker, Mont.

Returning from the service, the couple settled in Baker where Gary was employed by Flint Engineering, then worked for Big 'M' in the oil field. In 1978, the family moved to Big Piney, Wyo., to work for Gary's brother, Ron. Gary and Jean later moved back to Montana where he again worked for Big 'M' until moving to LaBarge, Wyo., to work for Chevron until his retirement.

In 1990, the couple decided to retire in Thermopolis. They started a handy man yard service and Gary also worked for Apache Oil Company.

Gary was a member of the American Legion. He enjoyed wood working, yard work and was an incessant teaser. He received the Ambassador for Peace Medal in 2016 from the Korean Government/Republic of Korea.

He is survived by his wife, Jean, of 67 years; brothers, Montie (Faye), and Clinton; children, Jerry (Linda), Tom (Judy), Lona (Phil) and Dona (Ray); fourteen grandchildren; and fifteen great-grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Ida Stanhope, Nellie and J.T. Jackson; older brother, Ron; and one grandchild, Joseph Cramer.

Viewing will be held at Mortimore Funeral Home on Thursday, November 12, 10 a.m. - noon.  Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. at Monument Hill Cemetery with Pastor Chuck Cooper officiating. Military honors will be accorded.

Mortimore Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.  Messages may be offered at http://www.mortfh.com.