Gary John Tuffli passed away on May 26, 2015 after a lengthy illness at the age of 56 years old. Gary was born August 30, 1958 to John and Elizabeth Tuffli in Madrid, Spain. He had recently transitioned to Hospice from St. Peter’s Hospital to Big Sky Care Center, where he passed away. One of his last wishes was to be baptized, which was accomplished while in the hospital. Gary was watched over the last few years by his sisters. They insured that he was always taken care of and felt loved.
Gary was born the fifth of seven children, three boys and four girls. This “Tuffli Tribe” kept Dad and Mom very busy while growing up raising the family. Most people knew Gary as a very laid back, easy going guy but he was far from that as a child, being a very hyperactive, “busy” child. However; when Gary ran out of steam you might find him asleep in a ditch or a wheel barrel, those were just a couple of places Mom or his siblings found him.
Gary attended schools in many locations, having grown up as an “Air Force brat”. The Tuffli family settled down in East Helena, MT in 1971. Except for a stint in the Navy, Gary would call Helena his home until his death.
Gary graduated from Capital High School in 1976, the bicentennial year. He joined the Navy in July of 1976 and proudly served his country on the USS Independence until October, 1981.
Gary was very intelligent and could speak on many subjects. His opinions were often based on fact.
His interests include history and sports (Go 49ers!) He will be remembered for his unique wit and dry sense of humor, as well as his generosity.
Gary was a long time employee of Montana State Fund until he was medically retired.
Gary was preceded in death and will join his mother, Elizabeth (Betty) Tuffli and an infant brother, Norman Gregory, as well as his maternal and paternal grandparents.
Gary never married but he was always surrounded by many friends and family that loved and cherished him.
Gary is survived by his father John H. Tuffli, and his siblings, Robert Tuffli (Berneice), Carol Fox (Bill Torgerson), Linda Herrington (Dean), Elaine Tuffli and Dini (Nadine) Scharf (Eric). He was particularly fond of his many nieces and nephews. We would be remiss if his many friends at the Gold Bar were not remembered.
The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday, May31, 2015 at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Avenue. A funeral service with military honors will be accorded at the Committal Shelter at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Ft. Harrison, Montana 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 1, 2015. A reception will follow in the social center of the funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Gary’s name are suggested to the American Lung Association or to an organization of the donor’s choice. To offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Gary please visit below.
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday May 31, 2015
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Burial with Military Honors
11:00 a.m.
Monday June 1, 2015
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Hero's Road
Fort Harrison, Montana 59636
Reception
Following the graveside service
Monday June 1, 2015
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday May 31, 2015
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Burial with Military Honors
11:00 a.m.
Monday June 1, 2015
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Hero's Road
Fort Harrison, Montana 59636
Reception
Following the graveside service
Monday June 1, 2015
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Share
Kathleen Pace says
Elaine and Tuffli Family,
Sorry and sad to hear the news about Gary. Know that we are thinking of you all during this difficult time.
The Paces
Kryss Kuntz says
Elaine and Tuffli family,
My heart is sad to hear of the loss of Gary! Please know you all are in my thoughts and prayers. Take it from one who knows, that you never get “over it” but you can put him in a special place in your heart where he will live forever. Gonna miss the ol’ bugger! Loves and hugs.
Kryss
Cris Sandru says
Wow, Im so sorry… My heart is sad… I know we all havent kept in touch but ….My prayer and hugs go to Elaine and all the family….
Rhonda Robertson says
Dear Elaine and Tuffli Family,
We are saddened to hear of Gary’s passing. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. May you find peace and comfort in all the memories you hold close in your heart. You have our deepest and heartfelt sympathy.
Bruce and Rhonda Robertson
Kathy Hardy says
My dearest Elaine and Tuffli family,
my what sad news to see on Facebook. I’m overwhelmed and shocked as i just read a comment he placed on one of my Facebook posts earlier this year. May the loving arms of God draw you all to Him as He gives you strength and peace during these coming days. My heart is extremely heavy for you. God bless you.
Doug & Candice Petersen says
We are so sorry to hear of Gary’s passing. Please know our prayers are with you during this difficult time – Peace be with each of you. God bless~
Sherri Ohs-Mosley (Mockel) says
To all of Gary’s family, Gary was too young for this and he was such a special guy. My memory of him is that he was always laughing, optimistic, and loving. So sorry for your great loss!
Teresa Lightbody says
To the entire Tuffli family, I am so very sorry for the loss of your son, brother & uncle. Gary was such a “really nice guy” … that’s the first thing that comes to mind when I think of him. There was always a smile on his face. That is how I will always remember him and it’s a great memory to have of someone. The Tuffli family bond is a strong one. It will carry you through another heartache of losing your loved one. God bless you all.
Rose & Taylor Berg says
Elaine, Dini, and Tuffli family
We were very saddened to hear of your loss. Hold onto the memories and each other to help you get through this difficult time. Take Care & God Bless. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Rose & Taylor
Jenna and Ryan Comstock (Allick) says
Elaine, Dini, Kayla, Dani and Tuffli Family:
I was very sad to hear of Gary’s ailing condition and his passing. I know he’d had ailing health in the past years and you’ve all gathered for him and held him while you still could. The memories you have will be with you forever, and eventually, you’ll remember the good times rather than this sad part of your journey. Know that when you remember the good, you may still cry, but it isn’t because you’re sad, just that you are overwhelmed and blessed with the opportunity and love you had with him. He was one of the neatest, funniest men I’ve ever had the privilege of knowing. Thank you for sharing him with me, and your family with me for many years. As I can say please let me know if there is anything I can do, I know there is nothing I can do to ease your pain, suffering and sadness. No amount of food or flowers can help. All I can do is hug you all tight and pray for you all every day. He’s home now with the Lord, and he is healthy and happy and smiling on you every day. He’s with Grandma now. I love you all, my second family, and I pray for your peace and healing in these coming months.
-Jenna
Emma Peterson says
To the Tufflis
I have only known Gary since I started bartending in December at the Gold and Western. Even in that short time it is easy for me to think of so many times Gary showed me uncondional love and kindness that I believe is truly unique to his character and shows how special he was. I miss him already and will think of him every time I play ship, captain, crew, eat Doritos and cottage cheese, or risk parking in the Wells Fargo parking lot during business hours. RIP Gary and I hope all the Tufflis, especially Elaine and Dini, have my support.
Emma P.
Wendy Vick says
What a great gift I was given to know and be considered a friend by Gary. You Tuffli’s have a way about you that captures a person’s heart. Gary was full of the same selflessness, laughter, love, and sincerity that I see in all the Tuffli’s I have been blessed to meet. If there is ever a family that will be there to lift each other up and carry each other through this painful time, it is your family. It makes me smile to think of Gary with his mom watching over us all while taking deep breaths of fresh air. But it saddens me to know I will never have another hug or hear his voice calling me “Wendalina” again.
Sara Margie Graveley says
I am so so so sad to hear this news, and had been praying for Gary -and now, nothing anyone says can ease this pain. Try to remember the special bond of family and that “Invisible String” attached to your hearts forever.
Love you all very much,
“Madge Marlow”
Tom Wakefield says
It is with deep sadness that we have to say goodbye to a true friend. I met Gary so many years ago, it’s hard to remember the first time. But ever since, he was always there with a smile and to shake my hand. No words can ease the pain that I know all the Tuffli’s are feeling. I will miss Gary for the rest of my days.
Rest in peace my good friend!
~Tom-Tom
Stacy Morrison says
Dini and Elaine and Family
I was heartbroken to hear the news of Gary. I know he was in ill health the last few years, but I know he’s with your mom now and probably keeping her laughing. He had such a good heart and a great laugh and just so damn easy going. I will give you guys a hug when I see you out at the fort on Monday. Love you guys, Stacy & Edwina.
Curt Garret says
Elaine and Dini and tuffli clan.
So sorry to hear of your brothers passing. My thoughts are with you and yours at this difficult time. Hugs all around when we meet next.
Gloria Kanta says
Dear Tuffli Family
So sad to hear of Gary’s passing….such a sweet, kind, funny guy. It was always great to see Gary. You guys are such a strong, close family I know you will take care of each other and will make it through this very difficult time.
God Bless you all. Gloria
Kathy Stacey says
I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Gary when he worked at MSF. He always had a smile and never left the building without saying good by. I missed that a lot. Prayers are with the family and sorry for your loss.
Kathy Stacey
Jim Riis says
Sorry to hear about Gary’s passing. Thinking about him really brought back some memories. All good and nothing can take them away.
Bob Biskupiak says
Gary is in a better place without the pain and suffering, but that does not diminish the grief for family and friends. I met Gary our freshman year in high school. For a couple of short guys, we made some noise on the court with the freshman basketball “B” team. Friends ever since. TwoFly – the memories will be cherished!
Barb Ekman Knutson says
Elaine and family,
I am so sorry to hear about Gary. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Know that he is in a better place and now he will be watching over all of you from Heaven.
Rudy Johnson says
I thought Gary would live forever. My heartfelt thoughts and blessings to the Tuffli family. SO, many great memories! Gary always provided great advice, from the days before he joined the Navy until after he returned home. We had many conversations, over a beer at the Korner , as in his silver Dodge van, usually involved several East Helenans. That was Gary, thinking about others before himself and giving sound advice. Rest in peace Compadre!
Mylon Ness says
Elaine Tuffli and to Gary’s family,
I am so sorry for your loss, Gary was a great guy, a fun and happy person to be around! Although I had not seen Gary in some time I still remember his happy-go-lucky attitude and witty personality. Rest in peace Gary I will miss you!
Mylon
Thomas Morrow says
Gary had (actually, still has) a lot of friends. He always had something good to say to or about anybody. Of the Marines (a part of the Department of the Navy), Ronald Reagan once said, “Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference. The Marines don’t have that problem.” Neither did Gary.
Pete & MaryAnn Rzevich says
Dear Tuffli Family,
MaryAnn and I offer our heartfelt condolences to Gary’s family and friends. MaryAnn was a co-worker of Gary’s at MSF and introduced me to him when she started working there some years back. I also got to know him through other mutual friends and always enjoyed talking to him. He was a excellent conversationalist. He was a good, generous man. If Heaven has a place where souls get together to enjoy one another’s company and have a cold beer, we’ll see you there, Gar. Godspeed.
Clark Christian says
I will always remember his smile and awsome attitude. He will be missed.
kelly schroeder rhimer says
Elaine and Family, So sorry to hear of Garys passing. Its very difficult to loose a family member so young. Havent seen Gary in a few years but he always had a smile and a good conversation
My thoughts and prayers all with you all. Kelly
flossie shaw says
Dini, Elaine and Tuffli Family
I am sorry to hear of Gary’s passing. May your fond memories of Gary help you through this difficult time. Thoughts and prayers are being sent your way.
Flossie Shaw
Steve Burk says
My condolences go out to the Tuffli Family, Gary was always genuine and we had some great times in our days, Gary will always remembered. -Steve
Connie and Tim Ferriter says
John, Carol, Elaine, Lynda, Robert and Dini, I was very sad to hear of Gary’s passing. He had a great sense of humor and a great laugh. He will truly be missed by many. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this sad time. God Bless
Pamela Shidu says
Elaine and Family, I send my condolences and all the aloha from HI. Gary was the best brother and friend Elaine could ask for and visa versa. You could tell they truly cared about each other. The Tuffli family, always welcomed everyone to be around them and want you to be part of the family. Gary had many special qualities, which will be missed. I am truly sorry for the lose of Gary, but know he is in a better place with Betty and his brother. Lots of love extend to John, Elaine, Carol, Bob, Linda and Dini, along with their significant others and their children. If the family needs anything just let me know. God Bless everyone and again, my sincere condolences.
Inez Slayman says
Heartfelt prayers and thoughts to the Tuffli family. I enjoyed working with Gary at State Fund for several years. He always had a smile for anyone, and was an all around good guy. May your good memories of him get you through this tough time.
Kelly McNurlin says
I am sorry to hear about losing Gary. I too, worked with him years ago at MSF. Some people may remember the ‘Roses Cantina Days’ in the 90’s. I remember Gary wtih a smile on his face and the get-down-and-boogey in his step! Whenever I saw him out, we would always say hi. I remember his boisterous laugh and the twinkle in his eyes. God speed Gary!
Bev and Don OPITZ says
Dear John and Carol, You are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time Hugs to all of you We care. Hopefully , many. Good memories will sustain you .
Dini says
I thank all of you for your thoughts and prayers for our family. To know Gary was to love him. Our family is a close unique unit and he’s with our mom. That helps tremendously. I am proud to say he was not only my brother but a best friend. Again Thank you.
Kevin Donovan says
I had not seen Gary since 1978. And for that I am the one who lost out. In High School Gary had a fabulous innate energy that attracted people and made them feel included. I will always remember him with that crazy bushy hair and precocious grin. So now I will imagine Gary ‘TwoFly’ Tuffli in heaven looking down on all of us tall guys.
Curt Synness says
Condolences to the Tuffli family for your loss. Didn’t know Gary as well as I did older brother Bob, but I enjoyed our conversations at the Gold Bar whenever I stopped in; he always had an interesting perspective on things.