Obituary of Gary Couch

Gary James Couch, a lifelong resident of Monticello, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 12, 2024 at his home.  He was 74. 

The son of the late Gerald Couch and Helen Anne (Kucera) Couch, he was born August 9,1950 in Monticello, NY. He graduated from Monticello High school in 1968 and following military service attended Orange County Community College and Cornell University where he earned a master’s degree in entomology and horticulture.

Gary was a veteran of the United States Air Force, serving from August 1969 until his Honorable Discharge in August 1973.  He attained the rank of Sergeant and served at USAF bases in the United States and Japan.  He retired from the University of Massachusetts, Boston as an entomologist and worked at Cornell Cooperative Extension in Sullivan County.  He also volunteered as a tutor at the Adult Literacy Center in Monticello.

Gary was also an avid hiker, having explored the Grand Canyon on eleven occasions, and enjoyed cross-country skiing, golf and poker.  He also enjoyed doing game puzzles in his leisure time. Unbeknownst, even to some of his closest friends, Gary was a prolific poet.  He was a beloved friend and wonderful person who was always willing to help those that needed help.

Gary is survived by his best friends Jerry (Blue) Larome of Indiana, Suzie (Cream Cheese) Lester, Jim Price (who became Gary’s eyes, always there to assist him when needed), Mickey & Donna Mulvey, and many close friends in the Monticello area.  In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his lifelong friend and neighbor, Donny Murray Jr.   

Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 2 from 10:00am to 11:00am at the VanInwegen-Kenny Funeral Home, 401 Broadway in Monticello, with a prayer service starting at 11:00am.  Burial with military honors will follow at the Glen Wild Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made in Gary’s name to Literacy Volunteers of Sullivan County, 63 North Street, PO Box 759, Monticello, NY 12701.

Arrangements are under the direction of the VanInwegen-Kenny, Inc. Funeral Home of Monticello.  For additional information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.kennyfuneralhome.com