Another memory came to me with Gary Wirtz and his older sister, Carol. I was babysitting my new sister ( less than a year old ) . Carol and Gary came down the street to keep me company as our collective parents were at their house. We three sat on the sofa and watched TV in black and white. This was in 1958. Gary went across the room to see my little sister, Sue, when Carol burst out: "get away from the baby, you'll scare her to death" It  was said in jest and we all laughed! Gary was not yet four (4) years old. Carol (8) and I six (6)!

I miss you everyday Opa, I can’t believe it’s already been 4 years since you’ve been gone. I keep your nascar stuff set up in my closet and stare at it every day thinking of you. You were the best Grandfather (and dad) a girl could ever ask for. I miss hearing you sing, having dinner with you, listening to you talk about anything &  everything. I wish more than ever I could talk to you and see you again. I love you to heaven and back, forever 🩶

My condolences to Gary's family. I first met Gary when I moved to the neighborhood in 1954 - the year in which Gary was born. In the ensuing years we became little pals and ruled our block on Norris Street! His parents, Marge & Carl,  quickly became good friends and neighbors with my parents, Frank & Irene. As well, Gary's sister, Carol, was more my age, also had good times together philosophizing and laughing. We all loved to play monopoly and had marathons that lasted days! 

When I was in 3rd grade at Lincoln School (public) Gary was enrolled into kindergarten! Wow! His first few days horrified him for no reason. I was called out of class to console him! . Well, it worked, and I became his mentor and Carol mine!

Well, it was a wonderful era on Norris Street as we played all sorts of ball games, roller skated, shopped at the 5 & 10 and went to the Parkside movies on Saturdays for 25 cents! We also frolicked in the many snowstorms and went to the shore as a family unit  x 2! This was the nifty '50's! Will always remember it well!

May God keep you forever and ever! You were the best! All my love to your children, wife, Karen, and the many grand children. His memory is alive and well!

It has now been two (2) years since Gary moved on to The Lord. I am adding a few memories which were omitted in my condolences of May 20, 2023.

Gary and I palled around on Norris Street as young kids would do. Having moved to East Camden, we learned to enjoy Chess, singing into my little tape recorder - "Lady Madonna" and "Let It Be"  and many other songs from The Beatles. We also took to long walks and played Pool at Dixie & Jerry's on Federal Street. In our best days we enjoyed snowstorms and sledding at East Camden's Dudley Grange on my Flexible Flyer; and, ice skating at Cooper River. We were buddies and we made memories! Thanks, Gary.Rest in Peace.

My condolences to Gary's family. I first met Gary when we became new neighbors on Norris Street in 1954; Gary was born and I at three (3) had just moved in with Mom & Dad down the street. Our friendship along with his sister Carol and family grew and lasted thru our teen years, albeit in different neighborhoods and towns! Our common denominators were singing and rock music such as CCR and The Beatles! Time and circumstances separated all of us, but the greatest of memories will remain forever.

I had not known of Gary's passing until his beloved Mother, Marge Dougherty Wirtz passed. I was so saddened. May Gary and his loved ones rest in peace. Blessings to wife Karen as well as sister Carol!