Gary R. Huffman

Huffman, Gary, 70, of Cottleville, Missouri, gained his wings on December 12th, 2022 in the arms of his Beloved wife, Sheila.

Gary was born in St. Louis, MO in 1952. He moved to Florissant in the 4th grade. Graduated from Hazelwood Central High School class of '71. After graduating, Gary moved to St. Charles County where he called home until the end.

Gary was a very hardworking person from a young age. He pursued different career paths until he discovered his passion for working with people and discovered he was a natural in sales. His path began with Kirby as a door-to-door salesman to which he saw much success and eventually opened his own Kirby sales office. As markets shifted, Gary saw greater success in appliance sales at Pat Riley.  His passion was always people.  In 1990, Gary pursued car sales with Lou Fusz, where he dedicated 21 years of service and enjoyed the camaraderie of wonderful coworkers and clients. From there, Gary worked at several other dealerships before deciding to retire at the age of 62. 

After a brief retirement, Gary found himself missing the connection with people and took a part-time position at The Flower Stop in Cottleville, Missouri.  He often told people how much joy he got from seeing the smiles on complete strangers faces as they received lovely bouquets from their loved ones.  He found himself at home with the wonderful staff of his local flower shop. Due to health issues, he had to return to full retirement.

Throughout his life, Gary's pleasures included golf, fishing, hunting and traveling. During which he made insurmountable memories and friendships. But his greatest joys in life, were always his family and friends. He never met a stranger and everyone quickly became a part of his large heart. Gary's playful demeanor and joyful spirit made him a favorite amongst the neighborhood,  especially the children, who all thought he was the 'real Santa Claus'. Luckily Gary was blessed with a multitude of grandchildren,  who encompassed the largest part of his heart.

Gary is survived by his wife, Sheila (Brawley) Huffman, his son, Robert (Keeley) Huffman and grandsons Cole and Kane Huffman; treasured bonus sons Scott (Tracie), Tony (Dina), and Kevin (Aimee) Davis; and grandchildren Allie, Abbie, Anna, and Ava Davis; Jacob, Grace, and Maggie Davis; Mylie Davis and Tyler Carter, Savannah, Selena, and Kaden Sadler; and recent addition of a great-granddaughter, Kage.

Gary was proceeded in death by mother, Evelyn Fix and brothers Michael Huffman and Kevin Crandell; bonus parents Afton and Lester Shaw, and John Ortwig.

In addition, Gary is survived by the many lives he touched throughout his wonderful life, with special acknowledgment to the Shaws, the Goodmans, the McTurnins, and the Kantureks.

A celebration of life will be held with close friends and family at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to the American Diabetes Association and the American Heart Association.