Gary was born Oct. 27, 1946, in Austin to Dorothy Pavelka and George Maruska. His family early in Gary’s life moved to Taylor, where he attended school. He was a member of the Taylor High School Class of 1964 and a member of the 1963 AA quarterfinalist Duck football team. He was awarded All-District Honors as a fullback.

Gary attended Blinn Junior College on a football scholarship, then transferred to Texas A&M University, where he majored in animal science.

After graduation, he joined the Air Force and married Annette Veselka of Taylor on Aug. 26, 1967. While serving in the military, Gary underwent fighter-pilot training at Randolph Air Force Base where his first child, Yvette, was born.

After attaining the rank of captain, Gary requested an honorable discharge. He then accepted a position with Ralston Purina in Brownwood, where their second child, Matthew, was born.

Gary was a natural salesman. During his time with Purina, he was honored twice as the nation’s No. 1 salesman.

In 1986, Gary and Annette decided to move back to Taylor to open their own business, “Aladdin Carpet and Interiors.” Gary’s work ethic was unmatched as he arose daily at 3 a.m. to be at his business by 5 a.m.

He is remembered by family members for his generosity and loving heart, never missing an opportunity to tell them, “Love you.” His mantra was to work hard, do business honestly and achieve first-class results.

While working hard to run a successful business, he still found time to volunteer as a youth baseball coach, where he had a positive impact on many of Taylor’s youth. Gary also loved watching numerous sporting events, especially those involving his beloved Fight’n Texas Aggies.

Gary was a member of the Knights of Columbus No. 1235, serving as grand knight for several years. In addition, he served on the St. Mary’s Catholic School Parish Council. Gary and Annette were avid supporters of many city, county and state political candidates, often opening their doors for political events, meetings and block walks.

He was dedicated to his family and was extremely proud of his children and grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife of more than 57 years, Annette; daughter Yvette; son Matt (Kendi); grandchildren Cole (Meagan), Gage, Gunner, Tate, Tori and Tess; and great-granddaughter Lindley.

Other survivors include his brother John (Barbara); Annette’s sisters, Janine (Shannon) and Beverly (Harry); and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A visitation is 4-6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 31, with a recitation of a rosary to follow, both at Providence Funeral Home, 307 Carlos G. Parker Blvd. N.W. in Taylor.

Funeral services are 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, at Saint Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, 301 E. Fourth St. in Taylor, with a graveside service following at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery. Pallbearers are Gunner and Gage Lowry, and Tate, John and Kyle Maruska.

Honorary pallbearers are Jimmy Shook, Eddie Perez, Shannon Kasper, Eric Stiba and Harry Harelik.