Gary Van Fleet,74, born in Somerville, New Jersey son of Leroy Van Fleet and Frieda Hall Van Fleet; moved to Houston, TX. in 1984, and went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Dec.5, 2017 at 2:49 am.

He grew up in Flemington, New Jersey where his family owned a local lawn mower repair shop; in which Gary spent time working on mowers with his father. These experiences created a love for mechanical things. In his younger years he had a fondness for cars and drag racing. Gary went into the Navy a year after high school, and served for four years. After getting out of the Navy he went to technical school for A/C and Heating repair and excelled in his career. His dive into a pool one fateful day changed his life and family's forever. He was never angry at God, and never asked "why me?"

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 53 years, Karen Coebler Van Fleet. They were High-School sweethearts. He had three daughters Victoria Van Fleet Joyner, Lori Van Fleet Okrinsky and Cara Van Fleet Connelly. He also leaves behind 7 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Wayne Van Fleet of West Virginia. Gary was predeceased by his brother, Larry Van Fleet.

His life's testimony and relationship with the Lord touched many people. Gary was one of the most loving men of Christ. He constantly told his family to "Stand Strong".   He had a faith like no other, and was driven to always find the best in any situation.