Gary Burgin was called home to be with the Lord on July 24, 2014.  He was surrounded by family and friends. When the gates of heaven opened to receive him, we know God said to him, “well done, my good and faithful servant.”
   Gary was born in Stockton, CA on March 19, 1945 to Clifford and Mercedes Burgin. He grew up in Stockton and Roberts Island living with his Uncle Manuel and Aunt Ellen Silva, graduating from Stagg High School. Gary served in the United States Marine Corps and was a decorated three Purple Heart Vietnam Veteran. After completing his military service he returned home and graduated from Humphreys College in Stockton with a degree in business.
   Gary owned several businesses throughout his career including Burgin’s Arco in Manteca, Kingdom Airport, and Country Side Mini Mart in Lodi. Gary was Manteca’s Small Business Man of the year in 1995.  Gary married the love of his life and soul mate Darlene Potts. Their love story was a true fairy tale and admired by all that knew them. They were best friends and always enjoyed life together.  They loved to travel and took many adventures, including their favorite Island of Kauai and visiting Jennifer and Kevin in Carlsbad.  Gary loved and valued family. He sponsored his brother in law Greg Potts Racing. In addition, he really treasured the time he spent with his children and especially grandchildren, Kylie, Savannah, Jake, Dax, Kaleb and Michael David. He especially loved the weekend tea parties with Kylie and Savannah.  Gary surrounded himself with many close friends and always made time to stay in touch. He loved sports-cheering on his 49ers or playing golf with his buddies. He also enjoyed his weekly lunch visits with his friend Joe Freitas at their favorite local restaurants - El Rancho or Waterloo. I’m sure he’s smiling down and telling Joey “You lost lunch today Freitas!” Gary enjoyed life to the fullest and he would often say “It’s All Good” to encourage others when they were down or times were rough. It was his way of saying everything is going to be alright. His generous positive attitude and love for his family and friends will be missed.
Gary loved his Lord Jesus and his church family at First Baptist church; he looked forward to his bible studies with Mike Clark and our small group studies.  
   Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Mercedes Burgin; and grandson Michael David. 
   Gary is survived by his wife, Darlene; daughters, Jennifer (Jeb) Hall and Amy Burgin; son, Kevin Burgin; stepdaughter Melissa (Tim) Boston; grandchildren, Kylie, Savannah, Jake, Dax and Kaleb; brother Glenn (Cheri) Burgin, sister Cheryl (David) Henning and his faithful dog Coco.
   A Celebration of Life will be held at 12684 E. Tokay Colony Rd, Lodi, CA, on Monday, August 11, 2014 from 6pm – 9pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Hospice, Shriners or Ronald McDonald House.  In honor of Gary, dress is casual and men may wear shorts and T-shirts.

Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Friday, August 8, 2014