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Garry Allen Fleming, age 58, of Bellingham, WA, died surrounded by his family in Birch Bay, WA, on Friday, June 21. Garry leaves behind his wife of 30 years, Maria Koplowitz, and his children Dante (Lena Rollins), Dashiell, and Lily, sisters Yvette (Eric Stevens) and Tiffany, nephews Dariyn, Makai, Elijah, and niece Lorna.

He was preceded in death by his parents Garry and Beverly Fleming and his brother Michael.

Garry was born in Anaheim, CA, in 1966 (he claimed the proximity to Disneyland is what made him so goofy). The eldest of four, Garry and his siblings grew up in Wenatchee, WA.

Garry graduated from Wenatchee High School in 1984 and shortly after followed his best friends Kevin and Bob to Bellingham and quickly made himself at home.

Always a ham, Garry played Tony in Westside Story while in high school. As luck would have it, he eventually married his real-life Maria -- and sang “I Just Met a Girl Named Maria” to her at their wedding reception.

Garry loved bringing his children back to his old stomping grounds of Wenatchee for a Dusty Burger and bonding time with their cousins. Every trip to Wenatchee included many stories of Garry’s youth -- from his time as a destroyer of snowmen in the winter (sorry neighbors) to summers spent with his siblings cooling down in Lake Wenatchee. There was also always a story or two about Garry’s dad’s love for fireworks, something they both continued to share with the new generation every Fourth of July in Birch Bay.

Garry was a foodie and lover of good drinks, something that is reflected in his career choices. From being the bar manager at Il Fiasco, where he pioneered an ambitious cocktail menu (who doesn’t remember the Chuck-a-nutty martini?), to his time as a wine assistant at Haggen, and most notably his 14 years as an owner of Stuart’s Coffee House.

Those who remember Stuart’s likely have their own personal story of their time at the “Downtown Living Room.” Garry, his wife Maria, and brother-in-law Joseph poured countless hours into making the Bay Street location a welcoming environment that fostered the arts (from First Fridays to Jazz Nights to Poetry readings and the Fringe Festival). Garry’s generosity and acceptance were cornerstones of what made Stuart’s special to the Bellingham community.

Garry had many passions in life -- he was an avid reader, a movie buff, a cocktail master, Batman historian, baseball fanatic, talented singer, eager dancer, devoted animal lover, former circus entertainer, and a once-upon-a-time karate instructor.

Most of all, he loved sharing his passions with family, friends, or just about anyone who would listen (Garry was quick to make you one of his friends). It was nearly impossible not to find some sliver of common ground with him.

A man who put the “Garry” in gregarious, he truly could light up any room. He was a welcome addition to any party (and was happy to welcome himself).

Once at the party, Garry could be found behind the bar, usually asking if he could make you a Negroni (his personal favorite). Again, he was always happy to share his passions.

Garry was an Anthony Bourdain superfan and got to make international travel memories of his own in Mexico, France and Australia with his family. From wine tasting in the Loire Valley to wine tasting in the Hunter valley to wine tasting in … well, Garry made the most of his time abroad.

Ever an early riser, Garry’s ideal morning would involve a strong cup of black coffee and an American Spirit Yellow, both enjoyed in a patio chair out front of his mother-in-law’s home in Birch Bay. Several hours later, he would recount his many wildlife sightings to his bleary-eyed children as soon as they were awake.

Prior to getting married, Garry told Maria that he wanted nine children -- so that he could field his own baseball team. Although he ended up with three children (and none of them stepped foot on the diamond), he was tremendously proud of them. He was truly the best hype man.

Any track meet, cross country race, football or basketball game, dance recital, class play, school field trip -- Garry was always there.

Proud of his children, Garry always made sure to celebrate their achievements and support their endeavors with unwavering enthusiasm.

Garry’s family are forever grateful for the loving care provided by the staff of Julie’s Bayview Adult Family Home during the past four years.

An opportunity for friends and family to gather in a celebration of Garry’s life will be held later this summer (date to be announced).

Memorial donations in Garry’s name may be made to the Huntington's Disease Society of America. Cheers in Garry’s honor can be made with any beverage in any corner of any bar, restaurant, living room or patio.