Wayne “Satch” Gary

Wellsville, NY - Wayne “Satch” Gary of 39 Sunset Avenue, Wellsville NY,  was born in Wellsville, NY on September 23, 1939 and died at Jones Memorial Hospital after a lengthy battle with lung cancer December 29, 2016. Wayne was the son Cleo Gary, Edith Sprague Gary and  Stepmother: Carolyn Gary. He was married to Therese Rose Fortner of Wellsville on April 11, 1964 at Immaculate Conception Church (52 years).

Survived by wife “TC” Gary, and daughters Gretchen Gary, Cynthia Gary (R. Christopher Kosciewicz), sister Rita (Gary) Lipsius, brother-in-law Joseph Fortner (Mary Joe), sister-in-law Sheila Gary, grandchildren Austin Johnson, Emily, Erin and Michael Kosciewicz.  He will be remembered fondly by many nieces and nephews.  Lifelong friends include Jack Emrick, Brian Padden, Tom O’Grady and Pat Hoover. Predeceased by parents Cleo Gary and Edith Sprague Gary; daughter Molly Marie Gary, and brother Dene Gary.

Wayne grew up and lived in Wellsville his entire life, graduating from Wellsville High School in 1957.  A graduate of the State University of New York at Brockport with a BS in Science. He took graduate courses from Alfred University and obtained a master’s of science degree from Union College.

Known as “Satch” by all, he taught high school science at Scio Central School for 33 years, named teacher of the year in 1993, retiring in 1995. He was an advisor to many senior classes and remembered by his students for his practical teaching of high school biology, chemistry and physics. He is best remembered as Scio’s baseball coach from 1970 to the early 80’s, loved by many who played for him, going to the sectional finals five times, winning two trophies. The Scio Tigers won over 100 games those 10 years. He was recognized for this achievement by his fellow coaches, referees and fans by being inducted into the Allegany County Sports Hall of Fame in 2007.  Satch enjoyed keeping Scio’s basketball clock as well.  

The nickname “Satch” came early in life during Wellsville Little League when his signature pitching resembled Satchel Paige, perhaps the best pitcher in baseball history in the mid 1900’s. Satch was known for his baseball achievements - as a pitcher in the Wellsville Little League, Babe Ruth, high school and as a catcher in his college years. Satch had a true love for his family, the outdoors, especially 3H Camp. Satch was both of his daughter’s biggest fan. He had a love for John Wayne, Waylon Jennings, family dogs and the game of baseball, especially his beloved NY Mets.

Calling hours will be held at the J W Embser Sons Funeral Home, 34 West State Street in Wellsville, Tuesday, January 3 from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm.  A catholic service will be celebrated at Immaculate Conception Church, 4 Maple Avenue, Wednesday, January 4 at 11 am.  Burial will be held at a later date. Memorials can be made to the Scio Central School Athletic Department, 3968 Washington St, Scio, NY 14880 in the name of Satch Gary. To send online condolances visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.