TRAVERSE CITY — Gary James Gleason, 80, of Traverse City passed away on Monday, May 11, 2026, at Munson Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family.

Gary was born on December 8, 1945, in Traverse City, the son of Harry and Clara Lucille “Dolly” (Plamondon) Gleason. On April 27, 1968, in Lake Leelanau, he married Jane VerSnyder, who preceded him in death in 1997.

Gary graduated from St. Joseph’s Seminary in Grand Rapids in 1964 and went on to attend Michigan State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in education. After college, Gary began his career in education as a Spanish and history teacher at A.D. Johnston High School in Bessemer, eventually becoming the principal. During his summers off, he and Jane owned and operated Paco’s Tacos, a popular drive in “root beer stand”. He also worked at Redpath Orchards during the summer break. He dedicated many years to education before retiring in 1996.

Gary is survived by his children, Jennifer (Vern) Bowling, Jeremy (Jessie) Gleason, and Justin (Carole Sullivan) Gleason; his siblings, Shirley Parrish, Judy Bonse, Robert Gleason, Mary (Ed) Bergren, and Richard Gleason; his grandchildren, Emily Roszczewski, Grace Gleason, Cecilia (David) DeLaRosa, James Gleason, Natalie Bowling; and his great granddaughters, Harper and Hazel Roszczewski.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Clara Lucille Gleason; his wife, Jane; his son, Jeffrey Gleason; and his brothers, Harry Jr., Allen, James, and Gregory.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, May 22nd at the Martinson Funeral Home in Suttons Bay. Please share condolences and memories with Gary’s family at www.martinson.info. Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.