Gary M. Boukus, Sr., 81, longtime resident of Plainville,
loving father and a cherished grandfather, passed away peacefully
in the comfort of his home on Saturday, July 5, 2025 surrounded
by his devoted family. With a heart full of love and memories,

he is now reunited with his beloved wife, Elizabeth A. "Betty"
(Castiola) Boukus, who predeceased him in 2016.

Together they shared 50 years of blissful marriage that filled
their lives with joy and companionship.

Gary was born on January 10, 1944 in New Britain, CT son to
the late Charles P. and Helen (Pich) Boukus, Sr.
In his youth, he was a talented pianist whose love for music
resonated deeply; his melodies conveyed the warmth of his spirit
and the moments that defined his life.

He also found great pleasure in bowling, often visiting local lanes
with friends and family.

A devoted communicant of Our Lady of Mercy Church for many
years and respected member of the Knights of Columbus,
he found comfort in his faith. Even in times when he could not
attend Mass at church, he watched daily Mass from home,
demonstrating his commitment to his faith and the community
around him. A proud recipient of his Master's Degree and his
Six Year Certification in Teaching from the University of Hartford,
Gary became a distinguished educator whose influence touched
the lives of countless students throughout Central Connecticut.

His journey began in Bristol, where he ignited a passion for learning,
and ultimately found his niche in Farmington. There, he imparted
knowledge and wisdom at both Irving Robin Middle School and
Farmington High School, inspiring generations in the fields of math
and science. He retired from the Farmington Educational System
but did not give up his passion for teaching.

Following retirement, he taught at the Learning Corridor Magnet
School in Hartford. Beyond the traditional classroom,
his influence extended to teaching drivers education at Farmington
High School, where he guided young minds in the vital skills of
independence and responsibility.

A talented woodworker, Gary found joy in transforming the family
home in Dover, New Hampshire into a haven of warmth and comfort, pouring his heart and soul into renovations with his own hands.

This cherished retreat became a sanctuary for many summers spent alongside his beloved wife and family, a place where laughter echoed
and lasting memories were created. Gary adored his 1959 Triumph
TR3A, a car that mirrored his vibrant spirit and adventurous nature. Countless hours were spent polishing and restoring it, and it became
a symbol of his dedication to craftsmanship and quality.

His eyes would light up with joy whenever he discussed classic cars,
sharing stories and memories that often drew in friends and family
alike. Above all, Gary's greatest accomplishment was becoming a
father and grandfather. He found immeasurable joy in his role as a grandfather, cherishing each moment spent with his grandchildren,
who were at the center of his world. He took immense pride in
supporting their dreams and endeavors and was always a constant
presence in their lives. He leaves behind a legacy intertwined with
love, dedication, and a profound commitment to family that will
echo through the lives he touched. Gary is survived by his son,
Gary M. Boukus, Jr.; his daughter, Helen M. Santini and her
husband, Jason; his grandchildren, Logan Boukus, Maddison Boukus,
 Zachary Santini, and Alexander Santini; his brother, Charles P.
Boukus, Jr. and his wife, Rosemary; his sister-in-law, Theresa Czak
and her husband, David; his brother-in-law, Steven Castiola; several
nieces, nephews, and extended family members; and his special
friend, Leona Bisson and his close friend, David Dudek, Sr.

He was predeceased by several extended family members and friends.
Gary's family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the
dedicated staff of N4 at the Hospital of Central Connecticut- New
Britain General Campus and Hartford Healthcare Hospice at Home.

Your compassionate care in his final weeks provided comfort during
a difficult time, and your kindness will be remembered with
appreciation.

Family and friends are welcome to gather on Saturday, July 12, 2025
from 9 AM to 11 AM at Plainville Funeral Home,
81 Broad Street, Plainville.
A Catholic prayer service will begin at 11 AM.
Committal will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Plainville,
where Gary will be laid to rest with his wife, Betty and
their infant son, Peter.

Donations in memory of Gary may be made to
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital,
501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105
(www.stjude.org).

For more information or to leave online expressions of sympathy,
please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory
of Gary M. Boukus, Sr., please visit our floral store.

PPublished by WFSB on Jul. 8, 2025.