of Little Rock, AR
June 11, 1951 - May 16, 2025
Gary Anthony LaPorte, born on June 11, 1951 in Babylon, New York passed away leaving behind a legacy of love, adventure and unwavering spirit. A man who lived life on his own terms, Gary was a private pilot whose passion for flight mirrored his deep curiosity and love for the world. He traveled far and wide, collecting stories, experiences and friendships along the way. When he wasn't soaring above the clouds, Gary could often be found on the golf course, enjoying the game and the camaraderie it brought. He had a sharp mind and a love for lively, sometimes heated, debates - always spoken with conviction and heart. But above all else, Gary's proudest and most cherished role was that of father and grandfather. He deeply loved his three daughters - Morgan, Kelli and Taylor - and their husbands, Matt and Frank. He found immense joy in being ''Papa'' to his grandchildren, Harper, Eleanor and River, who brought light and laughter to his days.
Gary was a man of strong words and stronger beliefs. When his daughters faced challenges, he offered them a simple but powerful reassurance: ''You are.'' That phrase became a mantra of strength and confidence, a lasting gift from a father who believed fiercely in his children. He is now reunited with his beloved son, Michael and his loyal dogs, Barkley and Tootsie. Though Gary's absence leaves a deep void, his memory lives on in the stories he told, the values he instilled and the love he gave so freely. No service will be held. A celebration of Gary's life will be held sometime in the fall, please contact the family for details.
He is incredibly missed.
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18 Condolence(s)
Kevin Herrell
Thursday, June 12, 2025
Flew with Gary several times. Was a very knowledgeable and enjoyable person to be with. RIP Gary, tailwinds!
Marta Otero
Sunday, June 1, 2025
I didnt know Gary very long but I always enjoyed his company. He was always friendly and kind to me. Sending you all love and prayers. May the memories comfort your heart and soothe your soul
Adam Sefton
Friday, May 30, 2025
My condolences to the family and all that knew Gary. I worked with Gary in the mid to late 80's and he was a friend on Facebook before he signed off there. He was respected by all in the flying community - He will be missed - May he rest in peace.
Dave Beranek
Wednesday, May 28, 2025
I am saddened to learn of Gary's passing. We met at British Aerospace back in the late 80's. He was a wonderful person and outstanding pilot.
We shared the same birth year and month. Gary was two days older than me. I can see him now on the other side of his desk in Little Rock drinking his beloved diet Dr. Pepper.
Gary and I played many rounds of golf, shared stories and laughed endlessly.
I cannot believe he is gone. Rest in peace my good friend. See you soon. 🙏
Dave Beranek
Michelle Marshall-Pfanz
Tuesday, May 27, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss. I met Gary many years ago when he lived near my parents in Grayslake, and I remember his kindness and great sense of humour, and how he liked to make my dad laugh. He was always so nice to be around and he always had a smile when I saw him. My sincere condolences to all of his family.
Carmella Marshall
Monday, May 26, 2025
Gary was always kind to Les and I and we loved him. We had so much fun together when they lived in Grayslake.
We were like family we got together on holidays and he and his family made our neighborhood exciting and fun to be together.
Lisa Lafferty
Monday, May 26, 2025
I shared a woodworking class at the Art Center with Gary. He was such a nice man.
My prayers are with the family
Debra Davis
Sunday, May 25, 2025
I was saddened to hear this but what a lovely tribute to Gary. My sincere condolences to the family. Prayers for peace my friend.
Dolores Lasorsa
Sunday, May 25, 2025
Gary, we share a lot of memories growing up as cousins. I was gonna be your stewardess and you a pilot. Well you became who u wanted and I never followed through. After so many years we reconnected in az then again in Florida. It was so awesome to meet again after so many years. I'm so sorry it happened. You are in no more pain. Fly Gary Fly! RIP'Lorrie(to you) Dolores Lasorsa
Bob Shaw
Sunday, May 25, 2025
Got to know Gary in late 80's while at Ark Mod and through our close association with British Aerospace where Gary was a professional pilot. Always admired and respected his competence, knowledge and skills as a pilot. On the personal side he was most likable for his calm nature and affability with no false airs of superiority or self importance. He had a wonderful sense of humor, as well.
I mourn his passing and know his daughters and their families will miss him in their lives.
Sincerest condolences,
Bob Shaw
''It matters not how a man dies, but how he lives. The act of dying is not of importance, it lasts so short a time.'' - Samuel Johnson
Thomas Ricchio
Sunday, May 25, 2025
I was fortunate to have had Gary in my life for a time. We flew together for several years and became very good friends . He was an amazing professional pilot. We were so good together in the cockpit. We flew around the world together and had many great laughs on the golf course. We both had young daughters and we had many conversations about them while we were away from them flying. I am forever thankful that our paths through life happen to cross. He was a great friend and will always miss him.
Jim Thompson
Sunday, May 25, 2025
I am sorry for your loss. I flew many hours with Gary in the front seat and myself in the cabin while at Dassault Falcon Jet. I know he will be missed.
Jim Smallwood
Sunday, May 25, 2025
I'm so sorry for your loss. What a great guy Gary was! I enjoyed working closely with him at Dassault Falcon Jet. My deepest condolences to his family.
Jessa Janton
Sunday, May 25, 2025
Kelli, Morgan, Taylor. Keep your heads up. Your father loved you so much. Remember he will always be with you. Always. Please let me know if I can help or do anything at all. Love you all.
Susana Rust
Saturday, May 24, 2025
I'm so sorry for your loss. Gary was a wonderful man, proud father and a great Papa.
I hope that you find comfort in all the memories that you built together through the years.
He will be miss tremendously!
Becky Wilson
Saturday, May 24, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss. I enjoyed working with Gary at Dassault Falcon Jet. 🛩️ He always had a smile and kind words for everyone. Praying for your family 🙏🙏
Becky Wilson
Saturday, May 24, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss. I enjoyed working with Gary at Dassault Falcon Jet. 🛩️ He always had a smile and kind words for everyone. Praying for your family 🙏🙏
Marsha Hines
Saturday, May 24, 2025
What a beautiful tribute to Gary! It was obviously written with love and appreciation for a good person. He has many friends who will miss him tremendously.