Gary “Gari” Green of Kenosha, Wisconsin, passed away on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at the age of 74. Gari was born on October 1, 1949, in Pontiac, IL, the eldest child of Harry and Louise (Reese) Green. After graduating from Minonk-Dana-Rutland High School in 1967, Gari attended Wartburg College and went on to work at Caterpillar Tractor Company in Peoria, IL, before being called to the priesthood. Gari attended Nashotah House Seminary from 1983 -1986. After graduation, Gari served four congregations in Rice Lake, Ladysmith, Greendale, and Kenosha, WI.
In 1968, Gari met Kate (Thompson) at Wartburg College in Waverly, IA. The two were married in December 1969 and had two children, Jennifer and Kendra, and four grandchildren, Hazel, Tristan, Griffin, and Ian.
Gari was known by many names by different people throughout life. Some of those names and identities include Zip, Gyro, Brother, Husband, Dad, Poppy, Bop, Gary, Janis, priest, friend, spouse, partner, LGBTQ+ advocate, son, grandparent, trans-woman, springer-spaniel-lover, hunter, Chicago Bears fan, golfer, athlete, and marathoner. Gari was scholarly, kind, generous, hardworking, fought for what they thought was right, and was loved unconditionally. Gari leaves behind a legacy of supporting and helping many people. Gari gave tirelessly to the community and was at their best when helping others.
Gari is survived by a wife of nearly 55 years, Kate; two daughters, Jennifer (Adam) Johnson and Kendra (Jamian) Knuth; as well as 4 grandchildren, Hazel Johnson, Tristan Knuth, Griffin Knuth, and Ian Knuth. Gari’s passing will leave a hole that will be felt by many. Gari’s memory will remain in the hearts and memories of family and friends.
Memorial visitation for Gari will be held on Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church 5900 7th Avenue, Kenosha, WI. Memorial Mass of Resurrection will commence at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, followed by placement of Gari’s urn at the church. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to CUSH at www.cushkenosha.com, the LGBTQ+ Center of Southeastern Wisconsin at www.lgbtsewi.org, or St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, in Gari’s memory.
