Garold Joseph “Gary” Smarsh, 86, passed away peacefully at the hospital on Sept. 23, 2026. He was born in Wichita to Nicholas “Chic” and Teresa Smarsh.

Gary grew up alongside his two brothers, Tom Smarsh and Nick Smarsh, and three sisters, Jeanette (Eric) Budd, Joan (Lynn) Boswell, and Mary (Clyde) Ketzner. His sister, Jeanette, preceded him in death.

Gary was a proud father to five children, Pam Cranmer, Brenda (Mike) Kilian, Marty (Sheri) Smarsh, Jodi (Kevin) Smith, and Stephen (Christy) Smarsh. He was a loving grandfather to 14 grandchildren and a cherished great-grandfather to 19 great-grandchildren.

Gary was a builder by trade and the proud owner of Smarsh Construction. He took great pride in his work and in everything he built with his own hands. He loved fishing, hunting, and working, and he enjoyed visits from friends, sharing stories, and making people laugh.

Gary loved his family. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were his greatest joy. Nothing meant more to him than having his family around him.

His stories, laughter, and ornery ways will be greatly missed.

Gary leaves behind a beautiful legacy of family, hard work, independence, laughter, and love. He lived 86 wonderful years, and his family is grateful for every one of them.

Gary was buried at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Cemetery in Mt. Vernon. Services were held at St. Joseph Catholic Church (Ost).

Per the family’s request, in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Wichita Habitat for Humanity, 2220 N. Opportunity Dr., Wichita, KS 67219.