After a valiant fight against cancer, it is with great sadness we announce the passing of Gary on July 2, 2017 at his home in Tucson, AZ at the age of 72. On May 25, 1945 Gary was born in Centerville, IA to Vance and Patty Childs. He came with his family to Tucson in 1951. His childhood was spent exploring the desert with his brother, cousins, and friends. In 1963, he graduated from Sunnyside High School.
Gary was drafted into Vietnam in 1967 and honorably discharged in 1969. He married Betty Cox on July 1, 1972. He worked for Pima County for 36 years starting as part of a survey party crew, eventually becoming a survey party chief responsible for building many roads, bridges, and wastewater management projects to prevent flooding.
An avid sports fan, Gary played sports in high school and city leagues. He loved watching University of Arizona sports and the Arizona Diamondbacks. He loved playing golf with his close golfing friends at courses around Tucson.
He leaves behind Betty, his wife of 45 years, daughters Ashley Childs and Constance Sousa, grandson Gary Sousa, brother Jack Childs (Anna Mary) and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. A celebration of Gary's life will be held at East Lawn Palms Mortuary on Friday, August 11, 2017 at 10:00 am.
Gary's family is requesting donations to the Tucson Community Food Bank, 3303 S. Country Club Road, Tucson AZ 85713 in lieu of flowers. The Childs family would like to thank Casa De La Luz Hospice for their compassionate care.
Arrangements under the direction of East Lawn Palms Mortuary, Tucson, AZ.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by East Lawn Palms Mortuary & Cemetery.
August 24, 2017
Chris Meek
I am saddened to hear about Gary's passing. I have corresponded with him for many years about genealogy. He was one of the best researchers I ever knew.
July 28, 2017
Family
Pat Williams
Betty & family
We are so sorry for your loss. All our love.
Aunts Caroline & Pat
July 22, 2017
Dom and Pat Caristi
Gary will be missed by everyone. It seems his friends from Sunnyside have known Gary all our lives, loved him and enjoyed his company. Prayers to the family.
July 21, 2017
Cathy Quesnel
My love, prayers, and thoughts are with you, dear Betty, Ashley, Connie, and little Gary.
July 11, 2017
Friend
Carol Moody
A great athelete and fellow alumni from Sunnyside class of '63. We will truly miss you at future reunions and luncheons. RIP GARY. Our deepest sympathy and prayers to his family and friends. Bill & Carol Moody.
July 10, 2017
Clayton Cointment
My deepest condolences on your loss! I worked with Gary here at Pima County Survey Department. We will miss him greatly!!
July 9, 2017
Carol and Tony Bingham (Romano)
So sorry for your loss Betty. I always thought of Gary as one of my many big brothers. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
July 6, 2017
Friend
molly Cloud
I am so very sorry. All my love to you, please know that you are on my heart. Please call anytime if you want an ear, a shoulder, a drink, a bite to eat.
July 6, 2017
Molly Cloud
I am so sorry. All my love to you. Please know that I have you on my heart.
July 5, 2017
Marian Naik
Betty and Ashley,
I'm so sorry you lost your wonderful husband and daddy. I wish I could be there with you. I always liked him so much. Please know that we are with you in spirit. I'm so sorry for your loss.
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Funeral services provided by:
East Lawn Palms Mortuary & Cemetery5801 East Grant Road, Tucson, AZ 85712
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