Gary Earl Foltz, Ph. D.

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Gary Earl Foltz, a beloved husband, father, and brother. He was full of light, overcoming many difficult obstacles that shaped him into the brave, gentle, and courageous man we knew. He remained strong throughout his gallant fight with cancer, exemplifying love and grace until his final days.

He was the oldest of Artie and Marie Foltz’s five children, born in Kansas City, MO. He is predeceased by his only sister, Janice. He is survived by the love of his life, Lou Reisinger Foltz, who was his best friend and partner in all matters. He often acknowledged how lucky he was to have such a devoted, selfless, kind and patient woman as his wife, and he was in awe of her every day. Together, they were fortunate to travel much of Europe as well as many cities in the US and Canada.

He is also survived by his three children, whom he loved deeply and brought many joys in his life: Kevin P. Foltz and his wife Linda Jackson of Anahuac, TX; Dr. Logan G. Foltz of Gastonia, NC; and Lisa F. Finnell, her husband Brent Finnell and grandchildren Simon and Piper. In addition, he is survived by brothers Thomas Foltz of Independence, MO; Kent Foltz of Lakewood, CA; and Dr. Richard Foltz of Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Gary received several honors during his life, including valedictorian of his senior class at Van Horn High School; (Independence, MO) in 1958. As an undergraduate at Kansas University, he was appointed battalion commander of all NROTC midshipmen his senior year and was valedictorian of his chemical engineering class.

Following undergraduate school, he was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant in the USMC. While obtaining the rank of captain, he served four years, including stations in Vietnam and Okinawa. He then returned to Kansas University to complete his Masters and Ph. D. in chemical engineering. He retired from a successful career as Vice President of Lithium Corporation of America at the age of 55. His business travels took him to memorable places including China, Novosibirsk and the Ob River in Siberia, Russia, and the Atacama Desert in Chile.

In his spare time he liked being involved in the local community. He was very active and loved playing sports, especially handball. He played tennis and golf for many years and coached soccer and basketball teams for his children. He volunteered as the Director of the Dallas Senior Center bridge group for 18 years and came in first place in his final game! He mentored young students in reading and math at Ashbrook High School, McAdenville Elementary and Robinson Elementary.

Gary and Lou created and funded the Inspirational and Motivation Teacher of the Year award at Ashbrook High School for many years. Gary sponsored several students with GO Gaston College Scholarships. He contributed to the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation and organizations that helped Ukrainian orphans living in Romania.

The family is grateful to the staff of Via Health Partners, especially RNs Jessica and Marilyn, for the dedicated care and compassion shown to Gary and his family.

Visitation for family and friends will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home. Military Honors will follow the visitation at noon in the chapel. Inurnment at Arlington National Cemetery will be at a later date.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704)864-5144 is serving the family.

Visit the website for additional information and online condolences: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to:

Marine Corps Heritage Foundation

Semper Fidelis Way

Triangle, VA 22172

https://www.marineheritage.org/makedonation.html

VIA Health Partners

900 Dontia Drive

Lincolnton, NC 28092

https://www.viagiving.org/one-time-giving