Gary Divel

Gary Lee Divel, husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend graduated from this life into his Lord and Savior’s arms on Dec. 7, 2020.

Gary was born on March 30, 1941, on the family farm in Jewell, Kan., to Rex and Doris Divel. An avid sports enthusiast, Gary enjoyed competing in a variety of sports. In high school he was a multi-sport star where he excelled in football, basketball and baseball; and ultimately went to college on a football scholarship where he graduated from Emporia State College in 1963.

On Oct. 14, 1961, he married his forever sweetheart, Betty Selvy, in Independence, Kan. Gary and Betty celebrated more than 57 years of wonderful marriage before our Lord called Betty home in 2018.

Gary began his professional life working in what became a long and storied career in civil service. After his government career, Gary moved into the private sector working for both Space Mark and Excel in executive positions until 1995. He then ran his own business until 2008. After retiring, Gary kept busy as an arbitration consultant in Colorado.

Gary had a passion for serving others and being involved in the community. Over a lifetime of activity, he coached sports for his children, served in various leadership and service roles at church, and held community volunteer roles that provided food and housing assistance in and around Colorado Springs. Another interest of Gary’s was visiting other countries and throughout the course of his professional career, he enjoyed traveling extensively and sharing gifts and mementos of different cultures with his family and friends.

Gary is survived by his daughter, Marcy, and son-in-law Jon; his son, Aaron; grandchildren, McKenzie, Bryce, Trevor, Elise and Caleb; and his brother, Jerry; along with many wonderful in-laws, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty; son, Lance; his parents, Doris and Rex; brother, Leon; and sister Judy.

His funeral will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 19, at Academy Christian Church, in Colorado Springs. Those unable to attend can view the service at this link: https://vimeo.com/488970765/cfde1b9e73.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to any of the following: American Cancer Society, Academy Christian Church and Mercy’s Gate.