Gerald (Gary) Robert Hone

In Loving Memory of Gerald Robert Hone (Gary)

Gerald Robert Hone, lovingly known as Gary, was born on October 27, 1940, in Toledo, Ohio, and passed away on October 19, 2026, just eight days shy of his 86th birthday.

Gary was an intelligent, analytical, and devoted man whose loyalty, determination, and love for his family were at the heart of everything he did. He was a dedicated provider, loving husband, a thoughtful friend, and a man whose many talents, passions, and accomplishments left a lasting impression on those who knew and loved him.

A proud military veteran, Gary served in the United States Air Force, Military Police, from 1958 to 1962 and the Massachusetts National Guard ,26 Cavalry Engineering from 1972 to 1976. His service to his country was a source of great pride throughout his life. As a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans organization, he remained committed to supporting and connecting with his fellow veterans.

Gary was also a successful entrepreneur with a creative spirit. During his years in Lowell, Massachusetts, he owned two businesses: Classic Tees, a silk-screening business, and Village Lantern Coffee, a coffee shop that holds a special place in his family's history. Today, his legacy lives on through The Village Lantern in Oakland, Florida, owned by his daughter, Tracie Comtois, his granddaughter, Cecile Comtois, and his granddaughter-in-law, Alexis Comtois. The continuation of the Village Lantern name is a meaningful tribute to Gary's entrepreneurial spirit and the lasting impact he made on his family.

After moving to Florida in 1986, Gary began working at ECC Engineering as a cost analyst, where he applied his sharp analytical mind and attention to detail until his retirement in 2006. Never one to stop learning or creating, he also developed a talent for website building and coding. He notably created greenberetcd.com to help foster connections among military service members. In addition to his technical abilities, Gary was a gifted writer and artist whose exceptional drawings earned him an art award. His curiosity, creativity, and resourcefulness were defining parts of who he was.

Above all, Gary treasured his family, who were a constant source of pride and joy. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Sally, and his children, Tracie Comtois (Louis), Caren Houle-Sayyed, and Gerald R. Hone II (Kristyn). He was a cherished grandfather to Jeffrey, Keith (Alexis), Gregg, Cecile, Brooklyn, and Madison, and a proud great-grandfather to three great-grandchildren. His love, guidance, and unique sense of humor will remain a treasured part of their lives.

Gary had a playful wit and a knack for sharing a joke, often leaving those around him smiling. One of his favorites was: “What's the difference between a boxer and a guy who has a cold? One knows his blows, the other one blows his nose.” His humor was a reflection of the personality his family will always remember and cherish.

Though Gary's life has come to a close, his legacy lives on through the family he loved, the businesses he built, the veterans he supported, and the many lives he touched. His intelligence, creativity, loyalty, and devotion will never be forgotten. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Military Honors committal service with will be held at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida, November 13, 2026 at 11:30am

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Gary's memory to Mike Conley Hospice House in Clermont, Florida.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Mike Conley Hospice House for the kindness, comfort, and exceptional care they provided to Gary and his loved ones during this difficult time.

Rest in peace, Gary. Your life, your love, and your legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew you.