Gary William Wichmann

Gary William Wichmann, 73, of Fleming Island, FL passed away with his family by his side on
December 3, 2020. He was born to the late Harry and Beryl Wichmann on July 7, 1947 in
Miami, FL. He attended Lake City Community College receiving an associate degree in
Forestry. He served in the Navy for 4 years and the Navy Reserves for approximately 19 years.
While in the Navy Reserves, he also served as the president of Blue Ridge Builders Company
and president of the Home Builders Association of Haywood County, North Carolina. After
retiring from the aforementioned duties, he then became the construction manager for Habitat
for Humanity for several years in Haywood County.
Gary, also known as Gege, will be remembered not only for his carpentry talent, but also for his
gentle character, compassion, and generosity. Over the course of Gary’s life, he touched so
many lives through his devotion to and passion for his family, friends and community. Our
“Gentle Giant” was the epitome of kindness. From helping neighbors and friends with the
simplest construction projects to being a health caretaker, he performed each task with humility
and pride. When he was not occupied by a woodworking project, he found tranquility in playing
golf and fishing with his family and friends. His nieces and nephews will whole-heartly miss
playing ping pong and pool with their Gege. Gary’s legacy will always be defined by his
exemplary character and that he could always be counted on through any crisis, large or small.
Along with Gary’s parents, he is preceded in death by his nephew, Ryan Connor. Gary is
survived by his wife of 43 years, Gale Connor Wichmann, his sister, Judy Conner, and his
brothers, Walter and Keith Wichmann, along with several nieces and nephews.
There will be a private family service to honor his life. In lieu of flowers, Gary wished for any
donations to be sent in his honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital ( www.stjude.org )
and/or Shriners Hospital for Children (www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org).