Gary Andrew Van Riper - Class Of 1965
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Gary Andrew Van Riper
With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate a life well lived. Gary Andrew VanRiper, 78, of Saginaw, a devoted husband, father, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on July 17, 1947, in Detroit, Gary was the beloved son of the late Andrew and Vera (Cox) VanRiper.
A proud graduate of Arthur Hill High School, Gary furthered his education by earning an Associate's Degree from Delta College and completing FBI training, embodying a lifelong dedication to learning. He was committed to empowering others through education, providing insightful classes in women's self-defense. His passion for community safety extended to his role on the marine patrol unit for Saginaw County, where he participated as a member of the dive team, providing crucial search and rescue services to those in need.
Throughout his life, Gary embodied a spirit of dedication. His service to the nation as an Air Force Veteran from 1966 to 1970, including two tours served in the Vietnam War, reflected his unwavering commitment to his country.
His dedication to public service continued as he devoted 38 years of his life to the Saginaw County Sheriff's Department, ultimately retiring as a respected figure within the community. Following his retirement, Gary served as Undersheriff of Iosco County for three years, demonstrating his steadfast and loyal service to law enforcement and his constituents.
Gary's love story began when he met the former Christine Hagerty, a relationship that blossomed into an enduring marriage on November 3, 1973. Together, they built a beautiful life, filled with laughter and love, while nurturing a wonderful family over their remarkable 52 years together.
Gary's legacy is marked by the respect he earned from all who knew and loved him.
A faithful and devout Catholic, Gary was a parishioner of the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and relationships. Gary also had a deep passion for history. He shared his love for the past by providing historical lectures and participating in Civil War reenactments, where he inspired many with his knowledge and enthusiasm. As a proud member of the Michigan Living History Education Association, Gary fostered a love for history in others, ensuring that the stories of those who came before us would not be forgotten.
Gary was also an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 1859 and the American Legion Post 22. Family was always at the heart of Gary's life. He treasured every moment spent with his loved ones, and his warmth and kindness touched everyone he met.
He leaves to carry his legacy to his loving wife, Christine; children, Norma (Kirt) Bierlein, Andrew (Kelly Rinz) VanRiper, Herbert (Heathre) VanRiper, and Ann Margaret (Greg) Lewis; grandchildren, Samantha, Nicholas, Kenzy, Shelby, Dakota, Elizabeth, Johnathan, Riley, Colton, Clayton, William and Matthew; great-grandchildren, Kennedy, Sutton, and Reed; in-laws, Jack (Phyllis) Hagerty, Janet Taylor, Denis (Janice) Hagerty; special friends, Steven and Diane Haley, and their children, Gabrielle and Isabella, and very special friend and care giver, Jeanie Haley. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Scott VanRiper, in-laws, Herbert and Doris Hagerty; in-laws, Bud Taylor, Richard and Ann Hagerty.
Gary's family will be present to receive visitors on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, from 2:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Skorupski Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1550 Midland Rd., between State & Gratiot. On Thursday, July 16, 2026, Gary will be taken to the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, 615 Hoyt Ave., Saginaw, where visiting will continue from 10:00 AM until Gary's 11:00 AM Funeral Mass. Fr. Andrew S. LaFramboise will preside, with cremation to follow. The family would like to extend a special thanks to The Care Team Hospice for their outstanding care and support. Memorial contributions may be directed to the wishes of the family. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family online at www.skorupskis.com.
