Long-time Glen Lake resident, Gary L. Humphreys, died Sunday at his home in Glen Arbor. He was 74. He is survived by his wife, Sharon; their children: son John, his partner, Christine, daughter Christine, and daughter Kathryn; and seven grandchildren: Eva, Charles, Tessa, William, Henry, Harper, and Lucy. Also surviving are his brother Michael (Judy) Humphreys and many nieces and nephews. Though he was born downstate in Casnovia and worked most of his career at Ernst & Young and Harrow Industries in Grand Rapids, Glen Lake played a central role in the life of Gary and his family, with many summer holidays spent at the lake. Gary's retirement in 2000 prompted a permanent move "up north" where, as a year-round resident, Gary played an active role in the community volunteering at the library and serving on the Glen Lake Board, applying his expertise in finance and tax to help others.
Gary loved gathering his family around and watching them enjoy life at the lake. His favorite job was to fuel the fun - often quite literally - making several trips into town each day for boat gas, sweet corn and pies from local markets, and toys for the sand and water. Gary's happiest moments were spent watching the sun set over Alligator Hill while his family played on the beach or enjoyed a barbecue on the patio. Evenings meant time playing cards, dominoes, or working on a jigsaw puzzle late into the night. Every moment was an opportunity for a "lesson", recall Gary's children, who describe their father as principled, committed to "doing what is right, not what is fastest", teaching them to be thoughtful and limitless in all of their aspirations and goals. He was always encouraging his family "to get out there and challenge yourselves". Friends remember
Gary's gentle spirit and calm nature, his sweet tooth, and his love for a good joke. His weekly poker sessions were a highlight for Gary, as was a Sunday afternoon sitting quietly in his office with his Labradors, one eye on the game, the other watching the birds flock to his feeders.
Gary will be remembered fondly by many in the community and beyond. In keeping with his wishes, his family will conduct a private memorial. For those interested in honoring Gary's memory, donations can be made in his name to the Glen Lake Community Library at 10115 Front Street Empire, Michigan 49630.
Please consider visiting www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your condolences and memories with the Humphreys Family.
The family is being cared for by the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home