Gary Dean Dorst

Gary Dean Dorst

July 12, 1947 - January 14, 2013

Obituary

MADISON-Gary Dean Dorst, age 65, of Madison, passed away unexpectedly at home on Monday, Jan. 14, 2013. Gary was born on July 12, 1947, in Marshfield, to Gerald “Doc” and Gloria (Whittingham) Dorst. After graduating from New Glarus High School in 1965, he served in the U.S. Army. On Aug. 5, 1967, Gary was united in marriage to the love of his life, Joyce (Johnson). They made their home in Madison and together had two children, David and Julie. Gary worked for Oscar Mayer for more than 30 years, retiring in 1997. After his retirement he was always on the go. Time was spent enjoying live music, traveling, weekly visits with friends and searching for treasures at garage sales and flea markets. During his down time he could often be found hanging out in his chair with his faithful pal, Leah. Gary’s passions in life were many. His love of music started at an early age when he played guitar in various local bands. There was a special place in his heart for movie soundtracks, Ennio Morricone who is best known for his Spaghetti Westerns, was his favorite. Gary was an avid collector of movie memorabilia, especially in the horror genre; he was known around the country for his knowledge on the subject. Gary is survived by his wife of 45 years, Joyce; children, David (Kimberlee) and Julie; father, Gerald; brothers, Dennis (Sharron) and Paul; grandchildren, Nathan, Zachary, Anna, and Katie; aunts, Shelby (Bob) Guerin and Edith Zepplin; sister-in-law, Janice J. Piper; and many other nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Gloria Dorst; and uncles, Marvin and Larry. A Celebration of Gary’s Life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2013. A Celebration of Gary’s Life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2013.

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TB
Tom Betts
Other •
Condolences to Gary's family. Gary and I go back to the early 1980s and our interest in Ennio Morricone, Spaghetti westerns and the fanzine Westerns... All'Italiana! It was Gary who got me in touch with Tim Ferrante and eventually I took Gary's place as Assistant Editor and eventually took over the zine after Tim went on to bigger and better things. The zine is now a blog and continues on. Gary I corresponded over the years and was a great guy. He will be missed by so many of us who are film fans. Rest in Peace amigo.
RK
Richard Klemensen
Other •
Gary was my best friend for over 40 years. I can't imagine my life without him, but my mind and heart are so full of memories of him and Joyce. With my first wife Karla, and my darling Nancy - our times together were priceless. My sons loved Gary D., too. We'll be together again someday, old pal, to talk about monster movies, fanzines and Italian Western music. You were the best of the best.
RM
Roger & Lisa McFadden
Other •
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.
SV
Steve Vertlieb
Other •
Gary was one of the most important friends and influences in my life. I don't think that I've ever come across a finer human being. He was loyal and loving to his friends and family. I cannot imagine my life without Gary in it. It was my honor to regard him as both my friend, and my brother...and an even greater honor that he thought of me in the same way. His memory will be cherished and revered by all those fortunate enough to have walked, however briefly, within his shadow. God Bless and keep you forever in paradise, Gary...until that blessed moment when we shall meet once more, and hug as dear friends do. Love Always, Steve Vertlieb
JO
Janice Oppliger
Other •
Joyce, I was so sorry to hear about Gary. He will be greatly missed. He was a really great guy. I am sorry I can not make it to the funeral, Doug and I are in Yuma, Az until the end of January. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Janice
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Roy & Janet Stacey
Other •
Dear Joyce, and family. Saddened, by the loss of Gary, the BEST rummage hunter I ever met. Always fun, always full of...it! Wonderful, to have known, miserable to have lost. We still hold our memories dear, and til I see you again, Gary, leave something for the slow one! Roy

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