Gary Lester Hale, 80, of Killingworth passed away on January 2, 2023 after a brief illness.   Gary was born in New London on April 15, 1942, the youngest of 12 children, to Wells L. Hale and Elsa (Hanson) Hale.

Gary is survived by Susan (Steele) Hale, his beloved wife of 52 years.  Gary also is survived by his sister, June (Hale) Swedberg, and brother-in-law, Dudley Swedberg of Minnesota.   Gary leaves behind many loving nieces and nephews and their respective families.

Gary was predeceased by his parents, as well as, his brothers and sisters:  David Hale; Barbara Hale; Ruth (Hale) Giddings; Robert V. Hale; Richard Hale; Pauline (Hale) Peckham; Betty (Hale) King; Allen (Charlie) Hale; Marjorie (Hale) Hall; and Lawrence F. Hale

In his youth, Gary spent much time with his sister, June, and brother-in-law, Dudley Swedberg.  While living in Minneapolis, Gary attended Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis, where Gary studied the Swedish Language as his required foreign language.   Gary loved to display his knowledge of Swedish from time-to-time.

Gary served honorably as an aircraft mechanic in the United States Air Force from 1959 through 1964.  His tour took him to places such as the Azores, Japan and elsewhere.   Upon his discharge from the service, Gary began a career as an electrician.

An avid sportsman, Gary won the 1976 Eastern Regional Pro-Am tournament held at Bradley Bowl in Windsor Locks, CT.

A proud IBEW Local 90 electrician, Gary has enjoyed a very active retirement, filled with kayaking, bike-riding, golfing, taking long walks, and enjoying lunch with Susan at countless restaurants throughout Connecticut.   Gary was very devoted to the love of his life, Susan.   Together, they travelled often, visiting relatives and many interesting places throughout the United State and Europe.  He always enjoyed family gatherings and looked forward to connecting with his brothers and sisters.

Perpetually inquisitive, Gary delighted in discovering all he could about a myriad of subjects.   He had an easy, friendly, disposition; quick to make acquaintances and sure to elicit a laugh or two in the course of conversation.

Gary's family would like to thank the Yale New Haven ER and Cardiac Team for their wonderful care for Gary in his final days.  They'd also like to thank family, neighbors and friends for their support and prayers.

A Graveside Service will be held Tuesday January 10th at 1 P.M. at State Veterans Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane in Middletown.  In Lieu of Flowers, donations in Gary's memory may be made to the Valley Shore Animal Welfare League, 47 Horse Hill Rd. Westbrook, CT 06498. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.