September 23, 1950 – September 15, 2023

Gary C. Unger, 72, died in the company of his family after a short battle with pancreatic cancer. Born in Dexter, MO to Eula Bland and Clyde Unger, Gary was the second youngest in a full home with siblings Mina, Bill, Sue (deceased), Joe, Kay, and Marilyn. He is survived by many cousins, nephews and nieces. He made his permanent home in St. Louis when he was 19-years-old and moved into the YMCA highrise downtown. Shortly after that, over a tray of spilled cookies, he met his life-long partner of 53 years, Paul J. Kelley Jr. 

Gary and Paul were the proud parents of 8 giant great danes, all of whom have crossed the rainbow bridge. In their first 25 years or so of life together, Paul and Gary shared many interests including camping, clubbing, and riding with their Motorcycle club, Blue Max CC. Gary served the St. Louis Public Library for 42 years where his last year of service was spent on vacation as he had accrued an entire year of unused PTO. We are certain the Library HR team changed the rules because of Gary alone. In retirement, Gary often volunteered for 5-Star-Center and was a vast reader, constantly getting deliveries from the library or downloads on Kindle. Gary was a greeter at his church, Metropolitan Community Church of Greater St. Louis where his celebration of life will take place. Gary will be remembered for his pragmatic attitude, resilient spirit, and wild stories. He is already missed by everyone whose life he touched. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at Metropolitan Community Church of Greater St. Louis (7423 Michigan Ave.) on Saturday, September 30 at 11:00am. 

In lieu of flowers, donations made be made to: 

5 Star Center (5starcc.org) 

Mercy Hospital (https://give.mercyhealthfoundation.net)

Metropolitan Community Church of Greater St. Louis (mccgsl.org/give)