Gary Hughes, 75

Gary Lee Hughes, age 75, of Colon, died on July 30, 2022 at his home following a brief illness.  He was born in Battle Creek on Feb. 7, 1947 the son of Marion B. and Ann Marie (Miller) Hughes and was a lifetime resident of the area.  He graduated from Colon High School where he played football and was known as “Mud Lump”. He was married to Sue Ann Lane on October 2, 1965 in St. Edward Catholic Church in Mendon, and later became “The Dancing Bear”. Gary was a truck driver for the former Haas Corporation, Javelin Industries, Central Transport, and for Abbott Labs who called him the “Hughesman”.  Gary was devoted to his family and looked forward to following his grandchildren’s sporting events. To relax he constructed bird houses and garden benches.

Gary is survived by his wife, Sue Ann; son, Andrew (Ilma) Hughes; daughter, Becky (Rob) Stauffer; brother, Robert Hughes; and was called “Papa Gary” by his grandchildren, Hayden and Isabel Stauffer, and Kevin Jourdan and Joshua Leonard.  He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Richard Hughes; sister, Mary Ann McElvain; and brother-in-law, Walter McElvain.

In keeping with his wishes, cremation has been conducted, and a private mass will take place later.  The family suggests that memorial donations be directed to either Promedica Hospice, 300 E. Chicago Rd., Coldwater, MI 49036, or to American Legion Post #454, 122 E. State Street, Colon, MI 49040.  Professional assistance was provided by the Eickhoff Funeral Home of Mendon.  Memories and condolences may be shared at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com