Gary M. Giard

Gary M. Giard, 61, of Plymouth, formerly of Worcester, passed away in his home, surrounded by his loving wife and son on Friday, May 27, 2016. Gary is survived by the love of his life, his wife of twenty-nine years, Lisa J. (Schonning) Giard; their son, Nicholas M. Giard of Washington, D.C.; four brothers, Lee J. Giard and his wife Patricia of Leicester, Walter C. Giard, Jr. and his wife Linda, Michael A. Giard and his wife Deborah, and John P. Giard and his wife Mary, all of Worcester; his mother in law, Marilyn “Max” (Christensen) Schonning of Whitinsville; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.  Gary was born in Worcester, son of the late, Walter C. and Marion (Dell’Olio) Giard.  He grew up in Worcester, later moving to Millbury, before settling with his family in Plymouth eighteen years ago.  He graduated from North High School in Worcester and later earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from Worcester State University.  Gary worked as an area manager for Verizon, having worked there for nearly forty years, he was proud to say that he worked his way through the ranks, starting from his college days, when he worked in a small office doing collections.  Throughout his illness he continued to work and perhaps the Verizon strike settlement, on the day he died, had something to do with his kind soul interceding in the discussions. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, traveling, reading, studying history and sharing a good laugh with his brothers.  He continued to have a great relationship with his brothers and he loved to “bb”.  His greatest joy, above all else, was his family, and happiness they brought to each other.  His world was complete with the love and company of his wife and son. A Calling Hour will be held on Saturday, June 4, from 9 a.m. until the 10 a.m. when there will be a Memorial Service following in MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester.  In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Lurie Center for Autism- Massachusetts General Hospital, in care of MGH Development Office, 125 Nashua Street, Suite 540, Boston, MA 02114, (please include the name of the person to be notified of your donation).