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Gary L. Elfring

September 30, 1940 - April 11, 2025

A Service of Witness to the Resurrection for Gary Elfring will be held at First Presbyterian Church, 321 W. South Street, Kalamazoo, MI, on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 7 pm (Please note that South Street will be closed during that weekend for the Kalamazoo Marathon events). The family invites you to join them for refreshments and reminiscing prior to the service, from 1-4 pm at Parkview Hills Clubhouse. The clubhouse is located at 3707 Greenleaf Circle, Kalamazoo, MI. When asked if he was hungry, Gary always responded, "I could eat." We hope you will share your memories of Gary with us as a way to have his spirit live through all who knew and loved him. During his life, Gary was a faithful contributor to the churches he attended and donated to many of the music and theater organizations in the communities in which he lived. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to similar charities that hold meaning for you.

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I had the honor to be Gary’s home companion and helper for almost 5 months. I’ve come to realize that we didn’t meet until Gary needed me and I needed him. I learned so much from him, and will cherish the memories we’ve shared. He was always so kind, quick witted, and selfless. My favorite memory with Gary was walking into his room every morning when he was waking up and saying “good morning Gary!” He always put on the biggest smile and it was truly the best part of my day. We would sing, he would teach me some Dutch, and we would eat a whole lot of chocolate together! He reminisced on his childhood and told me amazing stories about moving to America, soccer, and his career.Truly an incredible man and I’m so honored to have been part of his life. I’m so thankful to have met his family along the way and the bond that we share is unbreakable. For those that are struggling, know that grief is just love with no where to go. I know Gary would want all of you to put that love and energy into yourself. All my love and condolences to his family and friends.

Posted by Elizabeth on May 1, 2025

My wife and I met Gary through his sister, Ina, an old friend. Over the years when Gary would visit in Chapel Hill, we’d make a point of seeing him because we were very fond of him. One of my favorite memories of Gary transpired in a bar where friends had gathered. I don’t remember how the conversation started, but somehow Gary and I were at the corner of a table or next to each other at the bar. One of us mentioned the filmmaker Ingmar Bergman. The next thing I knew we were reminiscing about Bergman films we’d seen and loved. It was a great evening. Gary was such a kind, gentle and interesting person.

Posted by Tommy Nixon on April 15, 2025