Gary Lee Wilms

NEW MIDDLETOWN — Gary Lee Wilms passed away peacefully Oct. 13, 2025. Gary was born March 18, 1940. Gary grew up in Columbiana, graduated from Columbiana High School, and earned an Associate’s degree from Michigan State University. Gary spent most of his life as a landscaper.

Gary was a 64-year member of Allen Masonic Lodge in Columbiana having been initiated in June of 1961. He served Allen Lodge in both 1968 and 2011 as the Master of the Lodge. He served the Masons of the 24th District of Ohio as a District Education Officer in 1980 through 1983 and as District Deputy Grand Master from 2011 – 2014. Gary was a dedicated member of Allen Lodge, contributing to the life its members up to the time of his passing.

Gary enjoyed working outdoors and he had a creative gift for landscaping and design. There was not a plant or tree he did not know. He loved older cars, specifically Lincolns, and he was fond of the family dogs, most recently his beloved Victoria.

A loving husband of 27 years to his wife Verla, she preceded him in death in 2014. He is survived by his children, Doralie (Dave) Lautzenheiser, Amy Wilms, Doug (Cindi) Manypenny, Leanne (Gary) Cygan, and Dan (Brenda) Vargo; grandchildren Melissa Phillips, Lynn Miller, GR Cygan, Zack Wilms, Ashley Hill, Michael Manypenny, Joshua Vargo, Stephen Manypenny, Katelyn Green, Brittanie Vargo, and Destiny Vargo; and 18 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, J. Paul & Hilda (Frederick) Wilms, sister Gwendolyn (Kenneth) Frost, and is survived by his sister Caroline (Bob) Hall and brother Paul (Susan) Wilms.

Calling hours will be held Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, from 11 a.m. to noon. A Masonic service and funeral service will follow at noon at Seederly-Mong & Beck Funeral Home in Columbiana.

If you care to make a donation in lieu of flowers, please donate to Allen Masonic Lodge #276, P.O. Box 401, Columbiana, 44408-0401.

Family and friends are invited to visit www.seederly-mongandbeck.com to sign the guestbook or send private condolences.

10/16/25