Gary Albert Pape, age 79, of Conneaut, Ohio, passed away with his loved ones by his side on June 26th, 2026 at the home he built with love for his family.

Gary was a lifelong craftsman. He spent 41 years as a teacher at Conneaut and Ashtabula City Schools. After retirement, Gary continued his love of building through contracting and real estate. Gary was a member of the Conneaut Lions Club for 55 years, and was a pillar of the community, actively involved in the Safety Town Program and the New Leaf United Methodist Church.

Gary was married to the love of his life, Melanie, and just celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary on June 20th, 2026. Together they had three children and built a beautiful life full of laughter, family, and so much love.

Gary was survived by his wife Melanie, his three children Matt (Jodie) Pape, Meg (Dan) Zappitelli, and Michael Pape; Grandchildren Nathan, Jozlyne, Dominic, Mia, Jackson, and Michael; Siblings Sheila (Dave) Jury, Paula (Ron) Roberts, and Philip (Lynn) Pape.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents Albert and Grace Pape, brother Albert Pape, and sister Paulette Hillyer.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the New Leaf Event Center on Wednesday, July 1, from 3:00-6:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Conneaut Lions Club Safety Town and/or New Leaf Church.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Thompson-Smith-Nesbitt Funeral Home, 345 Main St., Conneaut, Ohio, 44030. Online guestbook and condolences may be viewed at www.thompsonsmithnesbitt.com