Gary Edward Urbon, age 89, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2026 at the Newaygo County Compassion Home in Fremont under the care of Corewell Health Hospice, following a year-long battle with heart disease.

Gary was born on May 2, 1937, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to John Edward and Doris (Thompson) Urbon. He spent all of his life in Michigan, eventually settling in Newaygo. Beginning in the 1980s, Gary and his wife also enjoyed spending their winters in Lake Wales, Florida, creating countless memories and lifelong friendships in both communities.

For more than 20 years, Gary worked as a sales professional for Sears Roebuck & Co. at Woodland Mall in Grand Rapids. Known for his friendly personality and genuine ability to connect with people, he never met a stranger and left a lasting impression on customers and coworkers alike.

On September 14, 1985, Gary married the love of his life, the former Elaine Bylsma-Finkler. Together they shared nearly 41 years of marriage filled with laughter, companionship, travel, and devotion to one another.

Gary embraced retirement with the same enthusiasm he brought to every stage of life. He loved golfing; so much so that he went to work part-time at the golf course just to spend more time around the game. He also enjoyed boating, camping, gathering with friends, and never passed up a good daily happy hour. More than anything, Gary cherished time spent with family and the many friends he made throughout the years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Doris Urbon; his sister, Joyce Urbon; his stepchildren, Kathy Finkler, David Finkler, and Annette Finkler-Westveld; sister-in-law Ruth Bylsma-Bajusz.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Elaine Urbon; his children, Pam (Larry) Bennett, Scott (Jan) Urbon, Chris Urbon, Michelle (Kenny) Wilburn, and Gary (Marcia) Urbon; his stepson, Steve Glass; siblings-in-law, Marie Meilstrup, Virginia Jackson and John Bylsma as well as many cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends.

Gary will be remembered for his friendly smile, his love of family and friends, his enjoyment of life's simple pleasures, and the many memories he created with those fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched.

Honoring Gary's wishes, no funeral or memorial services will be held. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date, where family and friends will gather to share memories and celebrate a life well lived.

To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Gary’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com

Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Christiansen’s Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Greenville, 616-754-5638.