Gary L. Appel

Gary L. Appel, born July 9th, 1951, in St. Louis, Missouri, passed away on August 19th, 2026, at 75 years young.

Gary was the beloved husband of Norma, and they shared 52 wonderful years of marriage. He was a proud father to Kristopher Appel and Kimberly Caimi, and a proud grandfather to six grandchildren.

Gary is survived by his wife, Norma; son, Kristopher (Velia) Appel; daughter, Kimberly (Tommy) Caimi; grandchildren, Alyssa (Austin) Thompson, Isabella Appel, Josephina Appel, Kaylee Richardson, Karina Appel; two brothers, Brad (Barb) Appel, Jeff (Debbie) Appel; sister, Sherry (the late, Steve) Feldman; grand-pup, Ozzie; great-grand-pup, Kobe; beloved cat, Jethro; and a host of other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Marvin S. Appel; mother, Margaret Appel; and grandchild, Tyler Richardson. 

Gary worked for Boeing for 30 years as a body man, painting missiles and airplanes. At work, he was affectionately known as ‘Shrek’ or ‘Fingers,’ a nickname inspired by his famously huge hands.

Gary was hilarious and always had a prank or a joke ready. He loved St. Louis Cardinals baseball and enjoyed watching the ballgame. But more than anything, Gary loved his family. He made a point of calling his grandchildren often just to check in and see how they were doing. He also loved visiting his grand-pups, especially Ozzie, who had a special talent for untying Gary’s shoelaces.

Gary took great pride in his home and was known for having the perfect yard. He could spend hours working on his lawn and flowers, making sure everything looked just right.

He also knew how to enjoy the good things in life. One of his favorite meals was prime rib from Fratelli’s Ristorante.

Gary will be remembered for his big hands, his big personality, his sense of humor, his pranks, his beautiful yard, his love of Cardinals baseball, and, most importantly, the tremendous love he had for Norma, his children, and his grandchildren.

He was a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, and a one-of-a-kind man who brought laughter and love wherever he went. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

Following Gary's wishes, no services will be held at this time.