Our beloved father Gary Reising, 63, of Winter Haven, FL, died on April 25, 2020 in Winter Haven after a brief illness.

Gary was born in Wallingford, CT on May 19, 1956. He graduated from Lyman Hall High School and began pursuing his passion in music and audio engineering. On November 14, 1981 he married the love of his life, Cynthia and welcomed their first child, Christopher, followed by a daughter, Vanessa. After a move to Florida they welcomed their third child, Cassandra. Gary will forever be remembered as a loving and supportive father.

There is comfort in knowing Gary and Cyndi are together again. Reminiscing about their epic New Years Parties, their first sound business Horizon Sound, and family trips to the Outer Banks and Old Saybrook. Their unconditional love kept them together through thick and thin. As everyone knows they are together again pulling pranks on each other and holding hands; we all know how much he missed his Hunkies.

Growing up with Gary was a never ending adventure. There was always constant laughter and a sense of never ending love. While growing up, we were there for his inventions of the inside out burger and the banana smoothie. Excitement was always felt when a rocket launch was to happen or if a planet was in the sky. Dad made the coolest haunted houses for Halloween that were legendary. Dad was Mr. Fix it with anything, each giving us countless memories of sitting with him at his workbench. Movie nights with Dad making his own popcorn was a weekly family tradition for the past ten years and will continue in his memory. Many lessons were given over the years ranging from how to work a soundboard, “picking your own tomatoes”, and how to ride motorcycles.

Gary had many endearing nicknames, but being Papa was one he wore with pride. He loved his granddaughters and the time they spent together. Home Depot projects with Ellie was a monthly tradition that he always enjoyed. He would sit for Harper while getting a makeover, complete with glitter and never complain. His face lit up when Mikaela would smile and he truly enjoyed her snuggles. Anyone who has crossed paths with him knows how they were the center of his world. They were and always will be his Spunkly Wunklies.

Gary began working in the fire alarm industry in 1989 for Simplex (now Johnson Controls) as a service technician. Upon joining the company, he became the service department manager and eventually moved onto Electronic Sales Service Representative. In addition to his work responsibilities, he was heavily involved in the American Society of Certified Engineering Technicians (ASCET) including holding the title of president. Gary is remembered fondly by his co-workers as a personable, responsible, and always willing to go the extra mile for his customers.

After moving to Winter Haven, Gary became a pivotal member of the Hope Presbyterian Church congregation. He happily served as a Deacon and eventually became an Elder. He applied his sound engineering knowledge to the behind the scenes aspects of the church’s day to day operations. One of his happiest moments was being the recipient of the Honorary Lifetime Membership Award of the Presbyterian Women.

Gary wore many hats in life, but anyone who knew him knew that his favorite was his motorcycle helmet. Gary found adventure in his epic roads trips spanning from Key West to Nova Scotia. Through these trips, he not only found adventure, but also created some of his warmest memories and formed lifelong friendships. His passion for bikes was only rivaled by his passion for his family.

“I’ve been wandering around

But I still come back to you

In rain or shine

You’ve stood by me Dad

I’m happy at home

You’re my best friend”

Queen, “You’re my Best Friend”

Due to COVID-19, services were private. A public memorial service will be held at a later date.