Gary W. “Carp” Carpenter

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Gary W. “Carp” Carpenter, 68, passed away on Wednesday, November 9, 2016. Gary was born the son of Patricia Rogers and Paul Carpenter and is survived by his loving wife Ret Carpenter; his brothers Wayne “Squeak” and Jeffery Carpenter; his sons Jesse (Kasia) Carpenter, Ryan (Cara) Carpenter, Michael (Sarah) Pechar; his daughter Ter (Scott) Spinner and his grandchildren MJ, Carter, and Macie Pechar, Quinn and Kelsey Spencer as well as many other beloved family and friends. Gary was born in Saratoga Springs on November 7, 1948. He grew up on Russell Street in Saratoga Springs where he continued to live, later spending winters in Barefoot Bay, Florida. He graduated from Saratoga Springs High School in 1966 and then continued on to work and enjoy attending music festivals, pitching softball, and raising a family. Gary worked as an iron worker for Laquidara, Inc. for 15 years and was a lifetime member of the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers Local #12. He enjoyed music, fishing, and sports which were only surpassed by his love of family. Gary spent 35 years as a member of the Saratoga-Wilton BPOE Lodge 161 where he was Elk of the year from 1989 to 1990, and 12 years at the Sebastian Florida #2714 Elks Club. Gary was also a lifetime member of the Principessa Elena Society of Saratoga Springs. It is impossible to put into words the person that Gary was. A very proud and humble man, he would do anything for anyone and always led by example. His quick wit and signature laugh could always put a smile on your face. His love for friends and family was unsurpassed and he always welcomed everyone he met into his life with open arms. Gary loved life and his optimism and enthusiasm put a smile on everyone’s face no matter how uncomfortable or dire the situation seemed at the time. He could make dark days brighter and cold days warmer. Gary will be missed by everyone he touched throughout his life. Relatives and friends gathered in his name on Monday, Nov. 14, 2016 at the William J. Burke and Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Homes of Saratoga Springs. A funeral home service followed; burial was held in Maplewood Cemetery in Saratoga Springs. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com