Gary T. Cieslak, Hermitage, passed away March 29, 2025, following an extended illness. He was 69.

He was born May 23, 1955 in Erie, Pa., to Nestor Cieslak and Betty R. (Traut) Norlin.

Gary graduated from Cathedral Prep in Erie. He was very active in football, wrestling, boxing and track and field. Upon graduation he attended Youngstown State University. He played football at the university his freshman year and earned his bachelor's degree in business.

Gary worked at Preston Trucking Co. for 15 years as a dock supervisor. He then became a franchise owner of Jackson Hewitt Tax Service, serving the Hermitage and Greenville area for 15 years.

Gary married his high school sweetheart, Holly (Shearer) Cieslak, on Sept. 15, 1979, and they were married for 46 years. She survives at home.

Gary enjoyed hunting, being outdoors, photography and gardening. He liked music, especially The Beatles. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandsons.

In addition to his mother and wife, Gary is survived by: three daughters, April (Josh) Davis, West Middlesex; Kelly (Jimmy) Davis, West Middlesex; and Christine (Jacob) McFall, Hermitage; three grandsons, Leland McCarrell, Chase Davis and Blake Davis; brother, Mark Cieslak, Mich.; and sister, Cynthia Cieslak, Mich.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, Nestor Cieslak; step-father, Hank Norlin; and brother, Joseph Cieslak.

CIESLAK

Gary T., 69, Hermitage.

Calling hours: 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday (4-3-25) in JOHN FLYNN FUNERAL HOME and CREMATORY Inc., Hermitage.

Service: 2:15 p.m. Friday (4-4-25) in Notre Dame Catholic Church in Hermitage, with Father Allen officiating.

Messages of sympathy, stories and photos can be shared on Gary's memorial page at www.flynnfuneralhome.com