Biography: Gary A. Stuckman, 76, of Bucyrus passed away on Saturday June 7, 2014 at St. Vincent Hospital in Toledo. His death was due to complications from a heart attack which he suffered last Sunday while fishing at Lake Erie with his son and son in law. Gary was born Aug. 16, 1937 in Bucyrus to the late Emerson Stuckman and Prunella Jacobs. He was married for the last 55 years and 9 months to Carol (Lash) Stuckman who survives. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by daughter Maureen A. Stuckman and sister, Dawn Stuckman Witter. Gary is also survived by children Brian Stuckman and Julie (Loren) Snavely both of Bucyrus as well as step mother Evelyn Stuckman of Bucyrus.
Gary grew up and was raised in Bucyrus but enjoyed spending time in the country. He began working at the family’s business, Crawford Nursery at age 10 and in the early 1960’s took over sole operation of the business. He was the third generation of his family to operate Crawford Nursery, which is still owned and operated by his children. Gary still was in involved with activities at the nursery and was semi-retired.
Gary graduated from Bucyrus High School in 1955 where he played H.S. football and baseball. He continued his education at O.S.U. and was a pitcher and third baseman for the freshman team, being coached by Fred Taylor in 1955 and 1956. Gary was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals but returned to Bucyrus to work in his family’s business. His life was built around family, work, and sports. He was a fan of the Big Ten and especially Ohio State.
Gary enjoyed the outdoors and especially fishing at Lake Erie where he has had a boat since 1975. The family also enjoyed vacations in Michigan where they fished. Gary was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, the NRA, U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance, Ducks Unlimited, MUCC (Michigan United Conservation Club), and the Archaeological Society of Ohio.
The family will receive friends at the Munz-Pirnstill Funeral Home on Wednesday from 4-7 pm and Funeral Services will be held on Thursday at 11:00 Am., burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery. The family suggests memorials be made to the Sportsmen’s Alliance or the donor’s choice and expressions of sympathy can be left at munzpirnstill.com