Gary L. Stowe, 68, of Feeding Hills, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, after a short illness. Born on January 4, 1958, in Springfield, Massachusetts, Gary spent his life in Western Massachusetts where he built lasting friendships and a career defined by dedication and precision.

Gary retired from Sunlife Financial in 2022 after years of service as a Senior Billing Coder. His colleagues remember him as meticulous, reliable, and always willing to help others navigate a tricky project. That same careful attention to detail carried through into his many hobbies and interests. He found joy in competitive shooting sports such as IPSC, IDPA, and SASS, and he loved the thrill of drag racing and the quiet satisfaction of bass fishing. A lifelong tinkerer, he could often be found at his computer experimenting, fixing, or learning something new.

Those who knew Gary will remember his fierce loyalty and the way he cared deeply for those in his circle. Beneath his methodical nature was a kind and gentle heart, especially toward animals. His home was always shared with two or more cats who were treated as family. Jesse and Nikki, his beloved companions, will surely feel his absence.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Gloria (Poggi) Stowe. He is survived by his brother, Barry Stowe of Caldwell, ID; nephews, Mike (Sara) Stowe of Boise, ID; and Eric (Shaylyn) Stowe of Vancouver, WA; cousins, Mark (Kathy) Poggi of West Springfield and Dean (Debra) Poggi of Agawam; and his former wife, Barbara Lantz, of Feeding Hills. Each of them carries cherished memories of Gary's humor, warmth, and steadfast presence.

Although Gary was lightly religious, he held a quiet faith and a belief in the goodness of life. Those close to him take comfort in knowing he is now at peace, reunited with loved ones who went before him.

A private service will be held April 6 to lay him to rest. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that friends honor Gary's spirit by being kind and helpful to others, and by remembering his favorite thought about the journey of life: "Life is Not a Dress Rehearsal."