Gary Baxter Obituary

Gary L. Baxter

Gary L. Baxter, 78, of Columbus Grove, passed away Thursday, June 6, 2024, at his residence.

He was born Sept. 5, 1945, in Anniston, Alabama, to H. Frank Baxter and Sally (Jennings) Baxter.

He graduated from Columbus Grove High School. Gary was employed by Phillips Display Components in Ottawa as a welder for 37 years, retiring in 2000. Gary was a veteran of U.S. Army, serving two years in Vietnam. He was a very active life member of Bowers-Slusser American Legion Post #516 in Columbus Grove for 56 years, having served as Post Commander and Adjutant. Gary was the American Legion First District Commander from 1986-87 and Department Treasurer from 2001-2002. He was also a D.A.V., Sons of the American Legion, 40&8 Voyageurs 11 member, and life member of VFW Post 9648.

Gary received the Putnam County Veteran of the Year award in 2017. Gary was on the committees that erected the Veterans Memorial at the Putnam County Fairgrounds, that updated the War Memorial Clock in front of the Putnam County Courthouse, and that erected Honor Rolls of Putnam County Vietnam Veterans. Gary went on several mission trips throughout the United States, assisting with meal preparation and remodeling homes damaged by storms. As an active member of Rockport Community Bible Church, he volunteered at Our Daily Bread soup kitchen in Lima. Gary was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Jackie (Alexander) Baxter; two sons, Jeffrey Baxter and Todd (Stephanie) Baxter; two stepchildren, Rhonda Heitmeyer and Jeffrey (Cherie) Cooper; 10 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; two brothers, Steve (Marilyn) Baxter and Robert (Beverly) Baxter; and sister-in law, Sherry Baxter.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Frankie Baxter; and grandson, Lukas Cooper.

Visitation will be 3-7 p.m. Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at Heitmeyer Funeral Home, 211 Veterans Dr., Columbus Grove, Ohio, 45830, followed by an American Legion military honors service and funeral at 7 p.m. Burial will be at a later date at Rockport Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to support Buckeye Boys State for First District. Make checks payable to Buckeye Boys State, in care of Russ Bohland, Conn-Weissenberger Post 587, 2020 W. Alexis Rd., Toledo, Ohio, 43613.

Condolences may be shared at www.heitmeyerfhatgrove.com.