Obituary of Gary K. Decker

Gary K. Decker passed away after a sudden illness on Sunday, April 14, 2024 in Winter Haven, FL
surrounded by his loving family. A lifelong resident of Shohola, PA, Gary retired and lived part-
time in Lake Placid, FL with his best friend and beloved wife, Charlene H. Decker, for the past 12
years.

A graduate of Delaware Valley High School, Gary worked as Director of Operations at Trails End
Campground where he developed and maintained buildings and grounds for over two decades.
A versatile entrepreneur, Gary also started and owned multiple businesses in the Tri-State area
in landscaping, RV/mobile home sales, and hospitality.

Known for his kindness, loyalty, wise counsel, and willingness to help others, Gary volunteered
for many non-profit organizations. Most recently, he served as Treasurer for Ridge Road
Runners Motorcycle Club and was a member of the Elks Club and the Royal Order of Moose in
Lake Placid, FL. Gary’s strong faith in God propelled him into church leadership. He served as an
elder, deacon, treasurer, and administrator in multiple faith communities.

Gary married the love of his life, Charlene Byrne Latini, in 2004. Together they raised Gary’s
son, Matthew, and became adoring, dedicated grandparents. Gary was happily retired and
most of all loved spending time with Charlene. They enjoyed fishing, boating, motorcycling,
playing cards, and entertaining many groups of friends and family. Gary nourished us all with
his fabulous cooking and humor. Whether pretending to ride a unicorn for his granddaughter,
serving as a butler for Charlene’s tea parties, or creating comedic skits, he filled our hearts with
laughter and joy.

Predeceased by his father Kenneth E. Decker, mother Georgianna Decker, step-granddaughter
Madison Cook, and sister-in-law Carol A. Hoppey, Gary is survived by his wife Charlene H.
Decker; his son Matthew P. Decker (Shohola, PA); his stepdaughter Theresa Latini and
granddaughter Eleanor (Minneapolis, MN); his stepson John Latini, Jr. and 5 grandchildren
(John, Branden, Brianna, Kristina, Jayden); his stepson Matthew Latini (Dana) and 3
grandchildren (Matthew, Michael, Madilyn); his stepdaughter Eileen Latini Cook (Ryan) and 2
granddaughters (Charleigh, Corey); two great-grand-daughters; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers,
donations can be made to the Carol and Tom Hoppey Memorial Scholarship in honor of Gary’s
dear sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Carol and Tom Hoppey of Port Jervis, NY. Checks should
be made out to “M.C.C.F” with the memo “Attention Carol Hoppey Scholarship” and mailed to
MCCF, 310 Prospect Hill Rd, Cuddebackville, NY 12729.

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