Gary L. Kupper

Gary Louis Kupper, 75, of Swanton, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2026, at St. Vincent’s Hospital, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly.

Born on September 8, 1950, in Toledo, Ohio, Gary was the son of Mary (Dale) and Louis Kupper. Throughout his life, he built a reputation as someone who could always be counted on— whether family, friend, neighbor, or complete stranger.

Gary was fortunate to find love later in life and is survived by his wife, Constance (Wise) Kupper. He was a devoted father to Mindy (Matt) Gallant of Bowling Green, Ohio; and Shawnna (Matt) Brassard of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania. Yes, both of his daughters married men named Matt—a fact Gary appreciated because it simplified family introductions and occasionally reduced the chances of calling a son-in-law by the wrong name. His greatest joy was being Papa to his grandchildren, Jacob and Jenna Gallant, and Henry and Oliver Brassard. Nothing made him happier than spending time with his family and watching his grandchildren grow. Gary is also survived by his brothers, Sherwood (Julie) Kupper, Doug (Voneise) Kupper, and Bruce Kupper, along with many extended family members and friends who were blessed to know him.

While Gary held many jobs throughout his life, including a long career in health systems, he was most proud of his service to others. He volunteered as a Firefighter, Emergency Medical Technician, Search and Rescue volunteer, and Community Emergency Response Team member, dedicating countless hours to helping those in need. Whether he lived in Oregon, Ohio; Waldorf, Maryland; Washoe County, Nevada; or Antrim County, Michigan, Gary immediately found a way to serve his community. His daughters fondly remember spending hours at the fire station while their father responded to emergency calls. Service was not simply something Gary did—it was woven into who he was.

When he wasn’t helping others, Gary rarely sat still. Family members quickly learned that if he had free time, he would find a project. A dripping faucet, searching for an underground tank, overgrown branches, or any item in need of repair could expect Gary’s attention whether it asked for it or not. Keeping busy wasn’t just a preference— it was practically a requirement. He also loved hiking and taking long walks, whether exploring a new place on vacation or simply staying active after a day of work. He believed movement was important and rarely passed up an opportunity to get outside and keep going.

Gary will be remembered for his generosity, dependability, sense of purpose, and willingness to help wherever he was needed. He leaves behind a legacy of service, family devotion, and quiet acts of kindness that touched countless lives. Though he often rushed toward emergencies, he never rushed through the moments that mattered most with those he loved.

In accordance with Gary’s wishes, a Celebration of Life will be held later this year in Ludington, Michigan, allowing family and friends the opportunity to gather, share memories, and celebrate a life well lived.

Though Gary has answered his final call, the lessons he taught, the love he shared, and the example he set will continue to guide those who knew him for years to come.