Gary Stephen Fortier

Gary Stephen Fortier, 70, of Gardner, MA, passed away suddenly on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Heywood Memorial Hospital after a wonderful day spent with family members.

A lifelong resident of Massachusetts, Gary was born in Groton on March 12, 1955, to Theresa (LeClair) Fortier. He earned his Class A license in 1971 and, in 1978, opened a trucking business, D&G Trucking, with his cousin and best friend, Richard LaPointe. In 1991, they started a second business together, Garrick Contract Carriers, which has grown and thrived over the past three decades.  After taking a step back from the business in 2018, Gary retired from driving but stayed involved with many other aspects of the business right up until his death.  

When not working, Gary still sought out the open road as often as possible. Some of his favorite pastimes over the years included searching for new diners and truck stop restaurants to try, day-tripping all around New England, visiting many NASCAR racetracks along the East Coast, attending truck shows with his family and friends, and taking road trips in his RV. Most recently, he spent the summer months in Wells, Maine, where he was surrounded by many friends and enjoyed hosting vacationing family members.

An extremely generous and compassionate man, Gary stepped up to help whenever he heard of others in need. Anonymously donating food at Thanksgiving or toys and warm clothing for families at Christmas were just a few of the ways he touched the lives of others far and wide. Most importantly, he will be lovingly remembered for being a caring husband, supportive father, and devoted Grandpa to his nine grandchildren, who brought him incredible joy.

Gary was predeceased by Barbara (Chase) Fortier, with whom he was married for 23 years until her death in 2010.

He is survived by his wife of 10 years, Donna LaFleur of Gardner; a son, Garett Fortier and his wife, Ellen Reed, of Templeton; two daughters, Jennifer (Hebert) Mayer and her husband, Skip, of Athol and Sara (Hebert) Yates and her husband, Bill, of Windham, Maine; his mother, Theresa of Fitchburg; and his grandchildren: McKenna, Madelynn and Meredith Fortier; Evan and Olivia Mayer; and Liam, Riley, Morgan and Devon Yates.

Calling hours will be held from 10 am to noon on Saturday, December 6, at Mack Family Funeral Homes, 105 Central Street in Gardner. At Gary’s request, guests are encouraged to wear flannel shirts and jeans.

A private interment will be held at Silver Lake Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Barbara A. Fortier Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Athol Savings Bank, 1499 Main Street, Athol, MA 01331.