Gary's obituary
Gary Coleman, age 62, passed away unexpectedly on November 22, 2025, in Sun City, Arizona.
Gary was born on March 11, 1963, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Vance Coleman and Gloria Coleman (Gaitor). He grew up in Milwaukee, where he developed the values that would guide his life—hard work, fairness, humor, and a deep sense of care for others.
In his first marriage, he had the joy of becoming the proud father to Dylan, Lexi and Nick- one of his greatest joys. On April 11, 2009, Gary married the love of his life, Marie-Claude Milot. Together, they built a life rooted in family, service, and shared adventures. Gary was a devoted husband and a deeply loving father to his kids, and a proud bonus dad to Zoe. He raised his children in Brown Deer, Wisconsin, where he was actively involved in their lives—coaching sports teams, showing up consistently, and prioritizing family above all else.
Gary dedicated 27 years of service to the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Department, retiring as a Sergeant in 2015. His career reflected his character: steady leadership, empathy, and a genuine desire to help others. He also proudly served his country in the United States Army. Service was not just a profession for Gary—it was a calling.
Even into retirement, Gary continued to dedicate time to service for his community. During his time in Seattle, Gary volunteered with Elizabeth Gregory Home, Page Ahead, Southwest Youth Family Services, Elder Friends and West Seattle Food Bank.
Those who knew Gary remember him as humorous, caring, empathetic, friendly, and always willing to help. He had a rare ability to make people feel truly seen and understood, whether they were close friends or complete strangers. His core values—family, service, and giving back—were evident in how he lived every day.
Gary had a passion for Green Bay Packers football, golfing, traveling, and most of all, spending time with family and friends. He believed strongly in looking out for those in need, treating everyone equally, working hard, and staying true to yourself.
Gary’s legacy is one of kindness, integrity, and love. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, and a loyal friend—someone who led with compassion and left every place better than he found it. Gary is survived by his wife, Marie-Claude Milot; his children Dylan, Lexi, Nick and bonus daughter Zoe; his siblings Michael and Michelle; and a host of cousins, extended family members, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Vance Coleman; his mother, Gloria Coleman (Gaitor); and his sister, Lori Lynn Coleman.
Gary will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
We warmly invite you to join us in celebrating the life of Gary. We will gather to honor his memory, share stories, and reflect on the love, kindness, and service he gave so freely to others. We hope to see you at one of the two services in his honor. Your presence means more than words can express as we come together in remembrance and gratitude.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Gary's honor to Meta House (www.metahouse.org) or Elizabeth Gregory Home (eghseattle.org) We thank you all for your support and kind words during this time.