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Gary Lee Fugate, of Pontiac, passed away on October 24, 2025, at 56 years of age. He was born on January 4, 1969 in Ary, Kentucky to parents Troy and Madeline Fugate (née Stanley).
Gary grew up in Michigan and graduated high school in Pontiac. He went on to build a proud career as a hardworking mechanic for 30 years until his retirement. He also retired from the city of Pontiac’s Water and Sewer Division. He loved life on the open road riding his Harley-Davidson, enjoyed traveling to new places—especially if there was a casino nearby—and found joy in playing his guitar wherever he could. Musically gifted beyond measure, Gary also played piano, keyboard, harmonica, and electric guitar. He shared his talents in the church band at Joy Bell Gospel whenever he had the chance. A true jack-of-all-trades, Gary spent his free time fixing up cars to sell and could whip up a meal that made everyone come back for seconds. He loved going to flea markets to buy and sell treasures, always making new friends along the way. His humor, sarcasm, and upbeat personality made him unforgettable. Gary was a man of great faith and a friend to everyone he met. One of a kind doesn’t even begin to describe him.
Gary leaves behind his children: Gary (fiancée Amelia) Hogge, Matt (Maria) Hogge, Taylor, Samantha, and Molly; and his grandchildren: Wyatt, Laigha, and Jude; “adopted” parents Lucille and Jay Horne He is preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Kimberly Robinson.
A visitation will take place on Sunday, November 2, 2025, from 4:00–9:00 PM at COATS FUNERAL HOME – WATERFORD (3141 Sashabaw). A funeral service will be held on Monday at 11:00 AM at COATS FUNERAL HOME with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at Perry Mount Park Cemetery.
To post a tribute, visit www.CoatsFuneralHome.com. COATS FUNERAL HOME - WATERFORD
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