Gary George Ebner

Gary Ebner, born October 19, 1951, in Germany, left our world suddenly & unexpectedly, on July 4, 2026. He was the beloved son of Emil & Martha (Reikert) Ebner, & brother of Richard (Dickey) Ebner, all deceased.

He came to our country from a German orphanage, not knowing a word of English, often mentioning how confusing it was to be put in a classroom and not understand a word being spoken.

Gary was a proud man. Proud of his heritage, his country, being a man of Benedictine High school, mostly, proud to be a Marine! He was also proud of the many friends he made along life's way.

Most of his lasting friendships were made through the neighborhood he grew up in, and the jobs he had.

While he felt the calling to serve our country, it was a choice made by him alone. His parents were not pleased to see him off to war. He served in the Vietnam war, which had a large impact on his life.

He didn't discuss the war much. Stayed as far away from fireworks as he could, (too much of a reminder of that gunfire), but gave regularly and generously to several charities supporting anything military, veterans, or children.

After returning from the war, Gary was caught in an explosion at work which sidelined him for a long time.He spent many months in the burn unit of Metro General Hospital. Those injuries changed the path of his future employment.

Gary loved to learn, study, & research many subjects of interest to him. He was very knowledgeable on many subjects, & it was best not to challenge him. He loved all things political, but things as simple as bowling, crosswords, and what the grocery prices were that week, interested him as well.

He could be mischievous, stubborn, funny, even "cantankerous ", as he called it. As the years passed, he became more patient and softer. He was more reflective. He was appreciative of all that his parents did for him to give him a good life.

There is a saying that "Friends are the family you choose". Gary WAS family to many, and a loving, loyal friend. He made special bonds of friendship almost everywhere he worked.

Never married, but loved the women! Loved all of our dogs, but never got his own. The funny stories are too many to mention. The countless friends who became family, are a list a mile long. He had nicknames for everyone.

Rest in peace and pride, Gary. Our table is empty without you. Thank you for being you! You will never be forgotten.

Visitation Friday, July 17, from 10 – 11 AM at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church, 12601 Shaker Blvd., Cleveland. Mass of Christian Burial following at 11 AM. Interment Knollwood Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to THE DeJOHN-FLYNN-MYLOTT FUNERAL HOME OF SOUTH EUCLID.

Donations may be made in Gary's memory to Disabled American Veterans.