Gary Dean Schempp

Gary Dean Schempp (Schemppie) 67, of Lodi became his precious family guardian angel on Saturday morning June 24, 2023 after three months battling brain cancer. He was born December 11, 1955 to Donald Dean and Esther (Wuthrich) Schempp. Gary married his high school sweetheart, best friend and Love of his life, Eileen Younker, in October 1975. Together they built a wonderful life raising their daughter, Crystal Schempp and granddaughter, Alexia Schempp.

Gary worked at Leslie Lock, Barnes Machine Shop, Spencer Axle and retired from Friendly Wholesale Company in Wooster after 46 years May 2022.

He adored his family and his precious granddaughter Alexia from the moment she was born his heart and soul was hers. Gary was one of a kind with his infectious smile and knew no strangers. He will be missed by all who knew his especially his lifetime buddies Roger Clayton, Gary (Gib) Garver, Dave Garver, Denny Ensign, Dave Ogilvy, Randy Killinger and neighbor Chris Amheiser.

He is survived by his wife, Eileen; mother, Esther Schempp of Lodi; child, Crystal Schempp of West Salem; grandchild, Alexia Schempp of West Salem; sister, Kathi (Mike) Jones of West Salem; nephew, David (Vanessa) Jones of Colorado Springs; and great niece, Kiley Jones of Colorado Springs. Close cousins, Debbie Wuthrich of Polk, Dee Binckley of Lodi; Terri (Buck) Grimm of Lodi; Spook (Mike) Cottrell of Lodi; Cyndia (Mike) Shaw of Lodi; Lynette (Larry) Hines of West Salem; plus, many more.

He is preceded in death by his father, Donald Schempp; father and mother-in-law, Homer Wesley and Rose Marie Younker. His cousin, Mike Wuthrich and best friend, Vince Cogar.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Lodi American Legion on the 120 Bank Street once a date and time can be confirmed.

Matteson Funeral Home of West Salem is assisting the family. If you have a photo or a memory to share you can do so at mattesonfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made for Alexia Schempp Trust Fund c/o Eileen Schempp 9595 Congress Road, West Salem, Ohio 44287.