Gary Lee Fresh

Gary Lee Fresh, 68, of Butler, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes Tuesday evening, October 3, 2023 at his home.

Gary was born in Butler on March 30, 1955.  He was the son of the late Samuel Fresh Jr. and Alene Ealy Fresh Thompson.

He was a 1973 graduate of Moniteau High School and was a United States Navy veteran, having served aboard the USS Koelsch.  He was a long time member of the Petrolia Fire Dept. and was the “ticket master” for the annual Gun Bash.  Gary enjoyed visiting with almost anyone, especially neighbors, friends and family.  He looked forward to truck rides with his nephew, Justin, and spending time with the grandkids.

In his earlier years, Gary had been employed at Hills Department Store in Butler, where he made many lasting friendships.

Gary is survived by his wife, Theresa A. Heeter Fresh, whom he married at St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church in Brady’s Bend on September 17, 1983.  Also surviving are two daughters, Elizabeth A. Fresh of Butler, and Ashley M. Olson and her husband, Terry, of New Stanton; his grandchildren, Brody, Evelyn, and Emmett; a brother, Bruce W. Fresh and his wife, Patty of Bruin; two sisters, Cindy Fresh-Davis and her husband, Fred, of Greshman, Oregon and Lori Williams of New Castle; his mother-in-law, Frances Heeter of Karns City, as well as a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers-in-law, a sister-in-law and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Daniel, his twin brother, Larry, his father-in-law, Darrell Heeter, and a sister-in-law, Tammy Raab.

Friends will be received at the Hile Funeral Home of Karns City, 128 Main St., Karns City, from 3-6 p.m. Friday.  Military honors accorded by members of the Chicora and Brady’s Bend American Legion posts will be held at 2:45 p.m. from the funeral home.  Members of the Petrolia VFD will conduct a memorial service at 5:45 p.m. from the funeral home.  Memorial contributions may be made to Hero’s Angels, PO Box 196, Chicora, PA 16025.  Condolences may be sent by visiting www.hilefh.com.

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