Gary Despres

Gary Despres passed away peacefully on April 30, 2017 after a lengthy battle with cancer, surrounded by his family. Born June 2, 1960 in Grand Rapids, Gary was the youngest of the four children of Bernard and Barbara Despres. He graduated from Catholic Central High School in 1978 and was proud to have made the first goal in the first game in CC Hockey history, later winning “First Team” All-State honors. Gary graduated from Michigan State University with an engineering degree and was a long-time employee of UNISYS. Gary enjoyed snow skiing, water skiing, and was an accomplished golfer. He was preceded in death by his mother Barb in 1981, and will be greatly missed by his wife and longtime friend, Cindy (Bek) Despres; his father, Bernie Despres; his stepsons, Quinn and Kevin McCormack; siblings, Mannette (Mike Minier), Bernard (Janine), Rich; several nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4031 Clyde Park SW on Wednesday, May 3, from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial and life celebration will be held at St. John Vianney Church, 4101 Clyde Park SW on Thursday, May 4 at 11:00 am. Burial at Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations will be appreciated by Kids’ Food Basket, 2055 Oak Industrial Dr. NE, Unit C, Grand Rapids 49505.