Gary A. Stilwell

Gary A. Stilwell of Trumansburg passed away on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at home with his family by his side.

Born on April 26, 1945, in Ithaca, New York, Gary was a son of the late Homer and Ida (Ames) Stilwell Jr. After graduating from high school, he worked a few years at Ithaca Gun before embarking on a career that spanned over three decades with the Plumber and Pipefitter Ithaca Local Union 109. His work took him all over upstate New York, where he touched countless lives through his skill, reliability, and camaraderie among colleagues.

Gary always cared for others and was fondly embraced as a second dad by many whose lives he quietly enriched. His ability to make others feel welcome and understood was a hallmark of his personality. Among his many interests, Gary was well known for his passion for gardening. He took special pride in growing and sharing his beautiful gladiolas. He loved racing—both as a participant in car and snowmobile races and as an enthusiastic supporter. Although Gary himself was a racer, his greatest joy came from watching his son Geoff race mini sprint cars.

Gary is survived by his children, daughters Terryann (Stephen Smith) Stilwell Masotti, Debbie (Jim) Christianson and son Timothy (Kendra) Stilwell; grandchildren, Sophia, Max, and Cosmo Masotti; Jimmy and Tyler Christianson; and Natalie, Liana, and Archer Stilwell; siblings, Larry (Linda) Stilwell, Cheryl (Mark) Godshall, Dick Stilwell, and Dawn (Michelle Lee) Stilwell; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and son Geoffrey Stilwell.

A graveside service will be held at Mecklenburg Cemetery on Saturday, August 8 at 11 AM, followed by a celebration of his life at the Stilwell homestead, 4819 Rt 228, Trumansburg, NY.