R. Gary Hendrick of Catawba, Virginia, left us on Friday, February 16, to join his mother, Topsy Atkinson; his father, Raymond E. Hendrick; his beloved grandmother, Lena Atkinson; and a host of very much-loved pets including Sitka, Little Gal and Scottie.
Left behind are his wife of 27 years, Ruth Zimmer Hendrick; daughter, Temmi Nguyen (Eric Conley); the lights of his life – granddaughters, Monica, Cassandra and Izabella Pham; sister, Carolyn Young; two special nieces, Kathy Britt and Michelle Jarrett; his best friend, Mike Atkinson; his feline best friend, Skeeter; and many loved aunts, uncles and cousins.
Gary was born on June 22, 1953 and grew up in Roanoke. He served in the United States Air Force in pararescue during the Vietnam conflict. Gary was also a volunteer fireman with Upper Craig Creek Fire & Rescue. He owned Zimmer Parts, and proudly designed and built the Zimmer Golden Spirit motor car for many years. His work with Zimmer afforded him the opportunity to travel widely and meet many interesting people, from royalty to superstars, as well as a few shady characters. Ruth and Gary loved to travel and visited many places across the world. Gary always made friends easily. He loved the outdoors and was happiest roaming the mountains near his home in Craig County.
Gary requested no services, only that at some time in the future his friends and family gather for a big party. He will be buried with his animal friends on his property in Catawba.
In lieu of flowers, please consider adopting a homeless pet or making a donation to Angels of Assisi, your local animal shelter or to a pet adoption facility.
Arrangements by Oakey’s North Chapel. Online condolences may be expressed at www.oakeys.com.