Gary Ruff Steger
Gary Ruff Steger was born in Pawhuska, Oklahoma July 19, 1947 and died January 1, 2022 in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Gary graduated from Pampa High School in Pampa, Texas. He was active in drama, Key Club and choir. He was not in the band, but traveled with the band as a helper whenever possible. He attended West Texas State University in Canyon, Texas and was active in the drama department. He was cast as Jesus in the stage show Jesus Christ, Superstar and was well received at the University. Due to an injury when he was 19, on a runaway horse in Colorado, Gary suffered a bad leg and back injury. After the injury Gary moved to Iowa Park with his parents and sister. He then moved to Sherman and was employed by Texas Instruments in Dallas. He moved back to Iowa Park and was employed by Iowa Park school as bus driver, maintenance and athletic complex groundskeeper. His other jobs included Cryovac in Iowa Park and Ameron in Burkburnett.
Gary enjoyed friends and family and was super smart. When it came to remembering things, we all called Gary. He remembered all the dates, names and places. Gary loved his children and grandchildren and would brag about all their accomplishments. He was an Oklahoma University supporter and also Texas Tech where his son graduated. Gary was always wise if you asked him for advice but always left the choices to those asking. He will be missed by all who knew him. Some called him Ruff, some called him Gary Ruff and some called him Gary.
Gary is preceded in death by his parents, William Ruff Steger (Bill) and Dorcas Geraldine Steger (Jerry). He is survived by his wife, Jean Steger; his sister Linda Merrick and husband Jim Bob; his son, Gregory Steger and wife Sarah; daughter Gina Maness and husband Matt; daughter Ginger Koehn and husband Jesse. Grandchildren Reece and Maddy Maness, Taylor and Cameron Steger. Nephew Jack William Merrick (J’Bill) and his wife Michelle and their boys, Jackson Merrick, Will Merrick and Michael Merrick. ; Niece Geri Lynn Merrick.
Gary is also survived by his step children, James Armstrong and wife Adrienne; Pete Armstrong and wife Kelly; Mike McKinstry and wife Rosanna; Jim McKinstry and wife Barbara; Ron McKinstry and wife Tammy. step grandchildren, step nieces and step nephews.
Gary’s children, Gregory, Gina and Ginger held a graveside service at Highland Cemetery in Iowa Park on March 5th where a portion of his ashes were interred and grave marker placed in the Steger family plot. Family and friends attended.
