Gary Martin Balliet

Gary Martin Balliet, 78, of Lewiston, MI, passed away March 30, 2023 at the Villa at Rose City.

Gary was born in Big Rapids, MI, to Forrest and Ella (Ross) Balliet, where he grew up and attended Big Rapids High School. 

He moved to Flint where he spent 32 years working as a machine operator for General Motors.

On April 10, 1989, he married Yvonne (Hill) Ostyn.  They would have celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary in less than two weeks.

A few of his greatest accomplishments of which he was very proud, were his affiliation with T.O.P.S (Take pounds off sensibly) where he was the King of his Lewiston chapter, and the 43 years he was sober with the help of his AA group.

Gary loved woodworking whether it was making furniture, carving, or whittling figurines.  He also enjoyed painting pictures.  Gary was an outdoorsman and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.  He was often found taking them canoeing, or fishing.  Much time was spent in the woods with his bow or rifle in search of his trophy.  Summer meant relaxing, and that time came for him at many area campgrounds.

Gary is survived by his wife, Yvonne; and his two children, Michele Kloc of Milford, and Stewart Balliet of Texas; his two grandsons, William Wilcox and Christopher Kloc; his brothers, Wayne (Shirley) Balliet of Big Rapids, Jack (Liz) Balliet of South Haven; and his sister-in-law, Judy Balliet of Lakeland Florida; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Forrest and Ella (Ross) Balliet; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Loretta (Avery) Ward and Judy (Homer) Strasser; and his brother, Kent.

Memorial gathering arrangements are pending.

Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service.  Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on the guestbook, below.