Gary Toepper, 67

Gary Alan Toepper, age 67, of Topeka, Kan., and former resident of Sturgis, passed away Sunday morning, Feb. 7, 2021, at University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor.
He was born May 8, 1953 in Sturgis, a son of the late John T. and Marieta (Fitterer) Toepper.
Gary resided in Kansas for the past 30 years. He also had lived in Las Vegas several years and his early life was spent in Sturgis, where he was a graduate of Sturgis High School with the class of 1971.
Most of Gary’s working life was involved in the bowling industry. In retirement, he accepted a position with Kansas Department of Corrections, transporting prisoners.
Gary was a confirmed member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Sturgis. He also was a member of the United States Bowling Congress. He enjoyed bowling, playing golf and shooting-sports.
He is survived by two brothers, Steven (Kyung) Toepper of South Korea and Jeffrey Toepper of Sturgis; nieces Carol, Trista and Jamie, and nephew Gyumin; and several great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Mark John Toepper; and a nephew, John Toepper.
In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service celebrating and honoring the life of Gary Alan Toepper will be held at 3 p.m. Friday at Hackman Chapel of Hackman Family Funeral Homes, 114 S. Nottawa St., Sturgis. The Rev. Calvin Kolzow of Trinity Lutheran Church in Sturgis will officiate. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a limit of 25 people in the funeral home will be observed and masks are required. Private burial of the ashes will take place at a later date at Prairie River Cemetery in Centreville.
The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Gary’s memory consider Trinity Lutheran Church, 406 S. Lakeview Ave., Sturgis, MI 49091.
His obituary is also at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com, where relatives and friends may share memories and leave condolences for the family.