Gary O. ERWAY

Gary O. ERWAY, 77, of Ulysses, PA, passed away on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, in UPMC Cole, Coudersport. 

Born on August 7, 1947, at home in Newfield, he was the son of L. Clifton and Mary E. Gearhart Erway. A 1965 graduate of Northern Potter High School, Gary served honorably in the U.S. Army from 1966 – 1968. On April 18, 1970, in Gold, he married the former Rita Lehman, who predeceased him on May 7, 2014. Gary was known for his unwavering commitment to his community and family. He worked at National Fuel Gas Company and the Ulysses Borough Authority, retiring in 2017. In addition, Gary worked as a dairy farmer for many years, embodying the hard work and dedication characteristics of rural life. A devoted member of the Ulysses Methodist Church, he also played an active role in the Tri-Town Volunteer Fire Company and the Tri-Town Volunteer Ambulance Association. As an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) for 30 years, Gary also served as a certified EMT Instructor, sharing his knowledge and passion to prepare others for lifesaving service. Gary’s compassion and selflessness knew no bounds. Whether responding to emergencies or supporting friends and neighbors, he was a steadfast presence in his community. Gary was honored as Ulysses Citizen of the Year, a testament to his tireless dedication. His acts of care extended deeply into his home life, as he lovingly cared for his wife and daughter during their illnesses. 

Surviving are: his daughters, Nicole (Donald Empson) Erway of Ulysses and Angela (Thomas Colwell) Erway of Bradford; a grandson, Bailey; two brothers, Melvin (Kay) Erway of Ulysses and Gordon (Marylou) Erway of Gold; and many cherished nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by a daughter, Malissa S. Erway, on January 17, 2012; two brothers, Lawrence C. Erway and Wayne S. Erway; and a sister, Carol Erway. 

A Memorial Service will be held 11:00 AM, Saturday, January 4, 2025 in the Ulysses Methodist Church. Lay speaker Eric Lutz will officiate. A fellowship luncheon will follow in the Tri-Town Ambulance & Fire Hall social room. Burial will be in Ulysses Cemetery. 

Memorials may be made to the Tri-Town Volunteer Ambulance Association or the Ulysses Methodist Church. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.