On October 19, Gary Michael Moston of Pinehurst, loving husband and father, passed away at the age of 79 at First Health Hospice surrounded by his loving family after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Leonore “Lee”, his son Michael (Nicole), daughter Caryl (Bill), his sister, Julie Ann Moston; brother, Larry Moston (Carole); uncle, James King; and grandchildren: Nicholas, Hailee, Hannah, Joel, and Parker.
Gary was born on November 4, 1940, in Chicago to the late Kathryn and Howard Moston. At an early age, they moved to Mazomaine, Wisconsin, and he spent his formative school age years in Madison.
Gary accomplished things in his life that most young men dream of. During high school, he was an All City Athlete in both baseball and basketball. As a Senior, he led his Baseball Team to their first Catholic High School Championship win in 1958 earning All Tournament Honors. After graduating from Edgewood HS, he got a full baseball scholarship to the University of Wisconsin at Madison. He went on to pursue a career in baseball and played 3 years in the Minor Leagues for the Cleveland Indians and the Baltimore Orioles as a pitcher. After injuring his pitching hand, he joined the US Army and proudly served for 24 years. He was a highly decorated combat veteran of the Vietnam War for 2 tours and received many honors to include the Purple Heart, Bronze Star of Valor, along with the Vietnam Gallantry Cross. He also received the Humanitarian Service Medal for his participation in the Iran Rescue and Evacuation Mission. In total he received 18 Medals, Decorations, Ribbons, and Badges. During his Military Career he was involved with Special Operations to include Delta Force as his last duty assignment. He was known as a superb intelligence analyst and leader. He loved his Country and was proud to say he served in the United States Military. After retiring from the military, he went on to a career as a civilian, working for the Department of Defense in Denver, Colorado.
When Gary and Lee retired to Pinehurst in 2003, Gary finally had time to perfect his golf game. He was especially proud of the fact that he had 2 holes in one. He looked forward to trips to Wisconsin for the annual family reunion at the King farm where he was able to visit with immediate family as well as many cousins and nieces and nephews and enjoy brats, beer, hay rides, and endless games of Euchre.
Because of COVID-19 social distancing will be practiced. A viewing will be held at Sacred Heart Church on Friday, October 23, at 11 a.m., followed by a Mass at 11:30 a.m. A graveside service with full Military Honors will be held at Pinelawn Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to First Health Hospice House, 150 Applecross Road, Pinehurst NC 28374.
Online condolences may be left at: www.bolesfuneralhome.com
Services entrusted to Boles Funeral Home of Southern Pines.
