Gary Eugene Shope, 83, of Toledo, Ohio, loving husband, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully, Monday, July 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Gary was born January 18, 1942, in Kenton, Ohio, to Albert and Amy (Duhl) Shope.

Gary proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. For 39 years, he worked as a railroad engineer with B&O, C&O, the Chessie System, and retired from CSX. In addition to his railroad career, Gary was a charter boat captain on Lake Erie, where he found great joy guiding family and friends to the largest walleye and perch in the Western Basin. A talented musician, Gary began his musical journey at Buck Lake Ranch in Angola, Indiana. He recorded an album and toured the country for over 30 years with his band, Gary Shope Interstate Country, playing country and western music. Later, he led the house band at the Stony Ridge Inn, continuing to share his love of music locally. He also served as president of the Family Motor Coach Association of America, combining his passion for travel and community.

On March 20, 2018, Gary married Patrick Codden. Together, they were active fundraisers for the LGBTQ community in Toledo and enjoyed traveling and camping—locally at Bluegrass Campground in Swanton, and across the country. Gary was also an accomplished cook, a dedicated flower and vegetable gardener, and a devoted John Wayne fan. A lifelong dog lover and proud supporter of the Ohio State Buckeyes, Gary brought warmth, talent, and adventure into the lives of all who knew him.

Gary is survived his loving husband and companion of 31 years, Patrick, siblings, Sue Shope- Donahue and Glen (Kathy) Shope; along with many nieces, nephews, loving family members and dear friends. Preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Joyce, David, James, and Sandy; along with his former wife, Carol; and an infant son.

The family will receive friends at the Eggleston Meinert & Pavley Funeral Home, Millbury Chapel, 1111 Woodville Road (east of I 280) Friday, July 11, 2025 from 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Funeral services Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 11:00 am in the funeral home. Interment: Lake Township Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be directed to Hospice of Northwest Ohio.