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Gary McVean Obituary
Gary was born on June 24, 1942 to Norman and Laura McVean in Fort Worth, Texas.
Gary graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington and received a Master's of Fine Arts from the University of Oklahoma.
Gary was a master jeweler and, for the past 31 years, co-owner (with wife) of Lanka Blue Jewelry in downtown Durango. Gary was also an accomplished painter, creating unique pieces using innovative techniques. Gary's work can be viewed in many of Durango's local businesses and has been shown in galleries across the nation. Gary will be remembered for his remarkable talent and intelligence and his extraordinary ability to think outside of the box.
Gary is survived by his wife of 55 years, Betsy McVean, brother Jim McVean and wife Debbie Kay, son Jullien McVean and wife Courtney, daughter Dovie McVean, daughter Laura Matchette and husband Michael, grandchildren Duncan and Shelby Matchette, and many others who loved him.
A graveside celebration of life service will be held at Greenmount Cemetery on Friday, July 3, 2020 at 1:00 pm. Gary's family requests all attendees to wear colors that reflect their memories of Gary (i.e. as little black as possible) and invites all who attend to share any and all memories of Gary to celebrate his life the way he lived it - honestly and courageously. Family also respectfully requests that all attendees wear face covering.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gary McVean
Annette Somsen
June 24, 2024
Gary I can still hear your laugh!
May you continue to rest in peace!
Annette
carla weatherly
August 11, 2020
So sad to hear. My heart goes out to his family. What a great guy. Loved his smile and when he laughed oh my.
Mack and Carolyn
July 11, 2020
We were so sorry to hear that Gary has left us. He was one in a million and we always enjoyed our time with him and Betsy. Love and healing to all yall
Laura Lewis Marchino
July 4, 2020
I have a piece of Gary's jewelry that I love and though I didn't know him personally, I know many who did and he made a difference.
How you can show support
Donna Nazario
July 4, 2020
I spent a number of years visiting Gary at his shop in awe of the incredible creations that surrounded me. This guy never stopped! Always pushing to the next level, what a gift he was and is to the ART community. Was always a treat and honor to be graced with his presence...Thank you my friend for your contribution to this planet.
Peace be still to you and your family....
Loopis
July 3, 2020
Gary never did custom work for anybody but when I asked him to make an engagement ring for Jaime in December of 2002 his face just lit up. Jaime spent a summer working at Lanka Blue and he was willing. Ill never forget him as he consulted me on stones and design at his shop in the alley behind his house.
Hes out swirling in the universe now and wish his family well. As well all of you that knew him as as a friend.
Freddie Karcher
July 3, 2020
Your memory will never be enough to replace you. Love you old friend.
Marcy Branham
July 3, 2020
He was an amazing human being and will be missed very much.
Shelley Horton-Trippe
July 3, 2020
I miss you, Gary, so very much. Just a few days ago Gary texted with me about reality and unreality, about literature and physics about existence. Gary had a curious and expanding mind and now he is traveling into those universes he was painting so prolifically, so brilliantly.
I am so sorry I can't be with you, Betsy and Julien and Dovie and Laura today to celebrate his life, but I will wear the brightest colors all day and think of you all sending all my love your way. I will see you Betsy, soon for a long walk and good talk.
Love, and more love,
Shelley
Annette Somsen
July 2, 2020
I'm so sad to hear of Gary's passing! I will definitely miss seeing him around. I worked at north City Market where Gary was a long time customer. He could always make me laugh! My condolences to his Wife, and family. RIP Gary
Annette Somsen
Leland and Glenda Griner
July 2, 2020
We have so many fond memories of Gary. From Texas to Oklahoma to Colorado. He was our lifelong friend and he will be missed, especially his laugh. RIP Gary!!
Heather White
July 2, 2020
We were sorry to hear of Gary's passing and praying for comfort to the family in remembering the good times and adventures. Sincerely, Heather White and sons, Telluride, Colorado.
Jeanne Porter
July 2, 2020
Betsy and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Losing your rock is the hardest thing ever. He was a funny and kind neighbor. Hearing his laugh was always a bright spot in my day. I will miss him, but never forget him. Let me know if I can ever help in any way.
Dovie McVean
July 1, 2020
His love of travel and OU football were 2 things that we talked many hours about. Ill miss you daddy
Chris Whatley Abbott
July 1, 2020
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Judy Willis
July 1, 2020
His laugh...wit and amazing talent! One of a kind gift. He will be missed. Love to the McVean/Matchette family.
Kalisha Crossland
July 1, 2020
Im so very sorry for your loss. Gary was such a great person, amazing artist, and could make anyone laugh with his sense of humor -he was so freaking funny. I have so many memories of laughing on main street with him. His spirit will live on through his amazing art that he leaves behind
Betsy mcvean
June 30, 2020
He was my rock
With him I always felt that everything was going to be okay. We were partners in this dream.
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