Gary Stephen Mendel

In Loving Memory of Gary Stephen Mendel October 15, 1951 – June 11, 2025 Gary Stephen Mendel, 73, of Spring, Texas, passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior on June 11, 2025. Born on October 15, 1951, in Houston, Texas, to Ernest Frank and Della Mae Mendel, Gary graduated from St. Pius X High School in 1969. A standout athlete, he earned a place on the 1969 All-State Baseball Team for his dominance on the pitcher’s mound and went on to receive a baseball scholarship to the University of Houston. In 2021, his achievements were further honored with his induction into the St. Pius Baseball Wall of Honor. One of his greatest joys was throwing batting practice to his son’s Little League and high school teams — a true full-circle moment in his love for the game. Gary was a devoted outdoorsman who cherished the beauty of nature and the bond of friendship. His passion for hunting began in South Texas and took him as far as Oregon, Canada, and Argentina. When hunting season ended, he turned his attention to golf and fishing — casting lines in Venezuela and Cabo San Lucas or enjoying time at his friend’s lake. Wednesdays were reserved for golf, and weekends often found him sneaking in an extra round. His truck had a familiar path to Louisiana, where he enjoyed cards, slots, and good company. Regardless of whether it was business, the card tables, golf, or hunting — Gary thrived on the thrill of the win. His competitive spirit was matched only by his generosity and integrity. A natural salesman and gifted entrepreneur, Gary spent over five decades in the drywall industry, building not only a successful career but also a vast network of friends and colleagues. He believed deeply in the responsibility of an employer to look after his people — rewarding extra effort and extending a helping hand in times of need. Known for his personal approach, quick wit, and effortless charm, he had a unique ability to ease tensions and bring people together. His presence lit up any room, and his positive spirit enriched the lives of everyone he met. Above all, Gary was a devoted family man. He worked hard to provide for those he loved and took great pride in being a husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Linda Oberhoff Mendel; his children Delaina Lewis and husband Eric, Christopher Mendel and partner Patrick Jez, and son Matthew Mendel; and his beloved granddaughter, Madison Pitman and husband Dalton. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Della Mendel, and his sister Camille. He is also lovingly remembered by his sisters Carolyn Livingston, Cindy Koenig, Pam Baxter, Melissa Wendt, and Cheryl Hendon. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 29 at 2:00 PM at Spring Baptist Church – Youth Center, 633 E Louetta Rd, Spring, TX. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Lung Association or the Parkinson’s Foundation, in Gary’s memory.

Gary Stephen Mendel

October 15, 1951 - June 11, 2025