Gary Martin Stern, 58, was born on July 2, 1950 in Mt. Clemons, MI and passed away peacefully on May 26, 2009 in Phoenix, AZ. He graduated from Catalina High School in Tucson, AZ and continued on to ASU to receive his BS.

Gary worked for the state of AZ as a programmer for 30+ years before retiring in 2005. He was an avid fan of horse racing and spent many of his younger years on a bowling league. He enjoyed spending time with buds at CK's Tavern and made a lot of lifetime friends. He was a wonderful and caring father that always had the best advice.

He is preceded in death by his parents, James H. and Eileen M. Stern. Gary is survived by his daughter Misty D. (Brandon) Bibb and his grandson Aidan M. Bibb. A celebration of Life will be held at 10:30 a.m., May 29, 2009 at Tempe Mortuary, 405 E. Southern Ave in Tempe.

In remembrance of his life, in lieu of flowers please send donations in his name to: Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St. Phx, AZ 85014.

Published May 28, 2009 in the Arizona Republic.