Gary D. Coram
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Gary Dewayne Coram, of Kansas City, Missouri passed away on November 5, 2021 at the age of 81, entering peacefully into the loving arms of Jesus.
Gary was born on April 24, 1940 in Kirksville, Missouri to Chester Coram and Irene (Thudium) Coram. He grew up mostly in small towns in Missouri and Kansas with a brief stay in Washington State. He was diagnosed with rheumatic fever as a young boy and for a long time was not allowed to play sports for fear of damaging his heart. He graduated Brookfield High School in 1958 and began working at Brown’s Shoe Factory. Shortly after, he met the love of his life, Ruth Kelley, and began working as an apprentice jeweler, which became a hobby he tinkered with the rest of his life. After dating for 3 years, Gary and Ruth were married in a double wedding ceremony with Ruth’s sister Nina and her husband Bill, on June 9, 1963.
Gary and Ruth started their family in Brookfield, Missouri, eventually settling in Kansas City, Missouri. They went on to have 4 children. Gary worked at Associated Wholesale Grocers as a warehouseman for 32 years until his retirement. He then worked part-time as a driver at Kansas City Auto Auction. Gary and Ruth were charter and active members at Grace Baptist Church, Lee’s Summit.
Gary was a car enthusiast who loved pranking his family and friends, watching Indy and Nascar races and spending time with his family. He rarely missed an activity that involved his grandchildren. He was a friend to everyone and his kindness was well-known. His famous Gary’s Salsa will live in infamy.
Gary is preceded in death by his parents (Chester and Irene Coram); daughter Mica Kelley Coram and grandson, Noah Michael Coram. He is survived by his wife, Ruth Coram; children Anita Coram, Michael (wife Julie) Coram and Nina Carnoali; grandchildren Taylor (husband Jordan) Barrett, Mica Carnoali, and Makenna Carnoali; great-grandchild Noah Ramirez; sister Glenda Krawl; nephews Robie (wife Paula) Krawl and Rodney (wife Mel) Krawl, along with many other extended family members.
Gary was a loved man of God who will be forever missed. A celebration of his life will be held Saturday, November 13, 2021 at Grace Baptist Church Lee’s Summit (850 Highway 150 Lee’s Summit, MO) at 12:00 noon with a visitation beginning at 10:00 am.
Gary was one of the finest men I’ve known—always friendly, always smiling, always there for others. He quietly served his God, not bringing attention to himself, but serving others. Ruth and his children were his joy and his life. We will miss him and his steady presence, but Heaven gained a very precious soul.. Well done, good and faithful servant.
I really enjoyed knowing Gary and seeing him have so much fun with Noah. I will miss watching him chase after Noah in the church and holding hands with Ruth almost every time I’d see the two of them together. I will surely miss him and can’t wait to see him again.
Kevin and I cherished the times Gary would tap on our arm to get our attention and once we acknowledged he’d go on to tell a story or an experience that he knew we’d be interested in. I’m mad at him though because we had a date to go to Kevin’s race. But I think I would choose heaven over a race to. ? We loved Gary and we love you, his family. We will forever miss this precious soul until we meet again. “What A Day That Will Be”.
Kevin and I cherished the times Gary would tap on our arm to get our attention and once we acknowledged he’d go on to tell a story or an experience that he knew we’d be interested in. I’m mad at him though because we had a date to go to Kevin’s race. But I think I would choose heaven over a race to. ? We loved Gary and we love you, his family. We will forever miss this precious soul until we meet again. “What A Day That Will Be”.
I so wish I could be there to celebrate Gary– He was always the kindest man. I am currently trying to recover from Pneumonia and will be unable to make it . All My love and prayers are with you and the family. Judy
He was the most kind and caring man. He accepted me into his family with no reservations. He always had something to share with me; either a story or something odd to eat. I will miss him but I am thankful for memories of him I will have forever!
I’ll never forget this man. Gary was one of the kindest most sincere loving men I’ve ever known that was always there for anyone. I will miss you Gary. I’ll see you again brother, where we will live for all eternity. It was an honor to know you in this life. God bless you Gary. ????
Dan and Jamie Ingram.
Praying for comfort and peace for your family. Gary will be missed.
It is hard to believe that Gary has departed this life. My heart goes out to my life long friend Ruth whom I always admired. Love and prayers Ruth and children. Gary is in the presence of Jesus.
Growing up with Gary near was a joy. Always seeing him at family reunions and watching him and Dad talk cars. Lost touch for many years as distance became an issue. But, hooked up again through social media. And when he and Ruth made the trip to come to Mom’s homegoing service, the years melted away. Such a wonderful visit. He will be truly missed. But was loved by all that came in contact with him. Say hi to my Dad and Mom as you enter into Glory.
I haven’t seen Gary in years but, I I feel such a great loss too. Gary was a kind hearted man who never drew attention to himself yet, I always knew I was in the presence of a good soul… because he radiated the love of Christ and he wore His image with humility. I loved to see Ruth and Gary together; they are such a great example of a happy marriage and that is rare to find these days. I have nothing but love for their family and I share in their grief but, I also glory in our God who provided us with hope that we will see him again… what a wonderful day the will be!
Met Gary in high school when he was dating my friend Ruth. Gary was a man of God. He was a good husband and father . He will be missed. Pr a yers to the family.
I’m so sorry I will not be able to attend the service.
Will be holding this family up in prayer, during this bittersweet time. He will be missed, but he is home in Glory with our Heavenly Father.
Gary Corum was my faithful friend for over 50 years. I will miss talking with him about everything. I am going to miss you my friend, until we meet again on the other side. God Bless and keep the Corum family.