Gary Lee Reeves, 76, passed away on Feb. 28, 2025, at Hays Medical Center, Hays, Kan., surrounded by his family.  He was born on Feb. 23, 1949, in Great Bend, Kan., to Eugene and Martha (Gerritzen) Reeves. Gary married Ann (Gowdy) Dec. 4, 1971, at Ellinwood, Kan. She passed away on Oct. 15, 2022.

Gary, a Great Bend resident since 1972, was a long-time driller in the oilfield working for Red Tiger Drilling, L.D. Drilling and finally retiring from Duke Drilling in 1995 after many years of faithful service. He enjoyed tinkering on his vehicles, gardening, and cherished time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren, going on fishing adventures, and giving countless hours of mower rides. He was also known to sing clever songs with made up lyrics just to get a smile and chuckle. He proudly served his country in the 54th infantry division during Vietnam from 1970 to 1972, being discharged with the rank of Sargeant E5. Gary also displayed amazing strength as member of AA, celebrating 37 years of sobriety.

Survivors include three daughters, Marcy Reeves (Scottie Schmidt), Tracy Reeves and Bridgette Thomas (John); grandchildren, Trinity Reeves, Jourdel Reeves and JaLeea Reeves; one granddaughter of the heart Aeriana Trimmer; three great grandchildren, Everhett Reeves, Hazelyn Reeves and Rebecca Reeves; and one sister, Donna Crawford of Sioux Falls, S.D. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ann; son, Eric Reeves; and grandson Tyler Reeves.

Memorial services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Pastor Dennis Morrison presiding. Inurnment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park, Great Bend, with military honors conducted by the Ft. Riley Honor Guard. Memorials may be given to Dropping 22, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home 

1425 Patton Road

Great Bend, KS  67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, March 4, 2025