Gary Stephen Wardius, age 66, passed away on September 16th, 2024, at his home in West Chester, Pennsylvania surrounded by his beloved wife, Joyce, and loving family. His shining personality touched all who knew him. He will always be remembered by his genuine, quiet generosity, and kindness to all. Gary grew up in Ogden and graduated from Chichester High School in 1976. A versatile athlete, he played football, ran track, and set records for the high jump at Shippensburg State College. Established in 1978, Gary proudly owned and operated Wardius Painting for 46 years. His dedication to his craft earned him respect and loyalty among his peers, employees, and clients. Outside of work, he was a longtime member of The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, Concord Lodge #625. Devoted to his family, Gary was present for every occasion, big or small, and was known for just stopping by to say Hi. His green thumb was showcased by his orchid garden, variety of peculiar plants, as well as his gorgeous pond and property. Gary found a second family at the marina where he spent weekends with Joyce on their boat. Together, they spent over a decade exploring the Chesapeake Bay. He adored gatherings with friends at the dock and loved sharing his famous steamed shrimp and secret crab seasoning; never giving away his recipe. Gary was predeceased by his father Ernest Robert Wardius as well as his brother, Dr. Ernest Robert "Rob" Wardius, Jr. He is survived by his wife Joyce Wardius, mother Patricia Wardius, children Dr. Stephanie Wardius (Dennis Kendall, Jr.), and Bryan Wardius (Amanda Campbell), siblings Sherri Ward (Marc), Dr. Jay Wardius (Jennifer), and Dr. Patricia Wardius (June Jennings), nephew Marc Ward (Kaitlyn), niece Keli Fetterman (Eric), as well as many other nieces, nephews, and cousins. Please join us in honoring Gary with a Celebration of Life on Saturday October 26, 2024 beginning at 3:00pm at 639 N. Mill Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348.

Please bring your heartfelt stories if you would like to share.  Dress colorful and warmly as the event will be in a heated tent.  We will begin with words of remembrances followed by cocktails, hors d'oeuves, and dinner. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Gary's name may be made to the Shriners Children's Philadelphia Hospital at www.shrinerschildren.org . Alternatively, donations may be made to Legos for Liv, a local charity formed by one of Gary and Joyce's friends that supports children at A.I. Dupont Nemours Hospital. For more information they can be reached at legos4liv@gmail.com; checks can be made out to Legos for Liv and mailed to 3 Byrd Court, Wilmington, DE 19808.