Gary Lee Stilwell

I’m Gary Lee Stilwell, 63, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, passed away on March 1, 2026, at Parkview Regional Hospital in Fort Wayne, surrounded by the love of his family.

Gary was born on December 30, 1962, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Richard Stilwell and Phyllis Ramm. He was raised in Fort Wayne within a blended family that included his stepfather, Donald “Don” Ramm, and his stepmother, Shirley Stilwell. Gary attended Harding High School before beginning his working career.

In 1989, Gary moved to Oregon, where he built much of his adult life. It was there that he met his devoted partner of 35½ years, Kelli Ann Snapp. Together they created a life filled with loyalty, laughter, and deep family bonds. In 2020, Gary and Kelli returned home to Indiana to be closer to his family.

Gary was a proud and loving father to Brandie Snapp, Tiffany Stilwell, Nicholas Stilwell, and Tyler Stilwell. He was a deeply cherished grandfather to Jayden, Ethan, Brayden, Bryson, Zane, Olivia, and Grey. His grandchildren were a constant source of pride and joy.

Throughout his life, Gary worked as a professional mover, helping families transition into new chapters of their lives, and later as a delivery driver. He was known for his strength, dependability, and tireless work ethic.

He was a member of the Navy Club and enjoyed the camaraderie and friendships he built there. In his free time, Gary loved fishing and golfing, cheering on the Chicago Bears and the Oregon Ducks, and listening to classic rock and roll and country music. He truly marched to the beat of his own drum. He was often the life of the party, spoke his mind freely, and didn’t take anything from anyone. Beneath that tough exterior was a man who loved his family fiercely and without condition.

Gary is survived by his life partner, Kelli Ann Snapp; his children, Brandie Snapp, Tiffany Stilwell, Nicholas Stilwell, and Tyler Stilwell; his grandchildren, Jayden, Ethan, Brayden, Bryson, Zayn, Olivia, and Grey; his father, Richard Stilwell; his mother, Phyllis Ramm; his stepmother, Shirley Stilwell; his siblings, Glenda Phillips, Richard Stilwell Jr., Brenda Drudge, and Mindy Miller; and many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Donald “Don” Ramm.

A memorial service will be held in Gary's honor on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 1:00pm with calling prior from 11:00am-1:00pm at Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 7633 Maplecrest Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46835.

A Celebration of Life will follow Sunday, March 8, 2026, from 1:00pm-5:00pm at Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post #2457, 12700 Dawkins Road, New Haven, IN 46774.

Arrangements and care entrusted to Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Fort Wayne, IN.