Eugene A. McGarey
Eugene Arlo McGarey, of Charlotte, a quiet man with a passion for fishing, passed away on September 28, 2018 in Lansing at the age of 82. He was born on August 25, 1936 to Vernon and Ruth (Keiser) McGarey in Petoskey. On June 9, 1962 he married Ruth Andrus in Angola, Ind. Eugene worked at various auto assembly plants in Lansing, for General Motors until his retirement. After his retirement he joined the produce department at the Charlotte Meijer store where he worked for another 12 years until his second retirement.
Eugene was a quiet man, until he spoke about things for which he had a passion. These topics included fishing, firearms and family. Like so many other fisherman, he enjoyed trips to Canada, however, his trips always included his wife Ruth, or family. On the topic of firearms, he was a model member of the NRA, developing a deep knowledge of guns of all kinds. He loved the outdoors, not only for fishing and hunting, but also spending time in his personal orchard raising apples and pears that grew near his large vegetable garden.
Eugene was most proud of his family. His grandchildren softened his hard exterior. Eugene’s close relationship with each one of them had a strong influence on his grandchildren, helping them grow into successful adults. Above all, Eugene would tell you that his best accomplishment was being married to his late wife, Ruth for 53 years before she passed away in 2014.
Eugene is survived by his daughter, Susan Cross; son, Michael McGarey; five grandchildren, Megan McGarey, Jamie Cross, Marissa McGarey, Jordan Cross, and Justin Cross; two sisters, Doris Scott, and Linda Schwartz; and two brothers, Gordon McGarey, and Gary Auvinen.
Visitation was held Friday, October 5, 2018, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services are Saturday, October 6, 2018, at 1 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home, with Rev. Duane Royston, officiating.
If desired, the family suggests memorials to Michigan Pit Bull Rescue.
Family and friends are encouraged to share remembrances and condolences online on Eugene’s tribute page at prayfuneral.com.