On the evening of January 20, Gary George Makowski (79) left his Earthly family surrounded by his beloved wife and three children. Gary’s intellect could only be rivaled by his extraordinary heart for his family. Through the progression of heart disease, he always prioritized time with his children and grandchildren – rarely missing an opportunity to see or support them.
Gary was born in Wausau, Wisconsin on August 22, 1945, to Chester and Dolores Makowski. As a Woolworth family, he moved around and attended numerous schools. While in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Gary graduated from Regis High School. He then received his BS, MS, and PHD in Mathematics and Probability Theory at the University of Iowa. In Iowa City he met Carla Turner, and they married at the college’s Danforth Chapel. Gary was a Professor of Mathematics for nine years at Marquette University and the University of Texas – El Paso. While in El Paso, their three sons David, Robert and William were born.
In 1987, he began missile defense engineering work at Fort Bliss, which eventually brought him to Huntsville, Alabama where he worked with Dynetics and Tec-Masters. Gary recently retired after 24 years with Northrop Grumman in December 2024. Notably his favorite project was THAAD where his algorithm work was invaluable. Gary loved his work and was highly respected by his peers. Colleagues referred to him as “brilliant but humble” and “generous with his time.” Indeed kindness, generosity and humility defined Gary well.
Even more important in his life was his unconditional love of family. Fondly known as “Beepaw” by his grandchildren, they could do no wrong. Gary could overlook imperfections with forgiveness of his children. Some of his happiest times were primitive camping and hiking with his sons as well as sharing his love of reptiles and amphibians encountered along the way.
Additionally, he is survived by his wife of 54 years, Carla Makowski; sons, David Makowski (Jackie), Robert Makowski, and William Makowski (Ashley); five grandchildren, Collin, Landon, Madeline, Jack and Logan; sister, Patricia Makowski; and brother, Michael Makowski.
A known tender heart, you would have to look far to find a man who could cuddle and calm a crying baby like Gary. His family catalogued his” 50 Phrases,” unique descriptions of events or people, which would either make you smile or groan. Gary was always thinking. In his down time, he enjoyed inventing, patent creation, and world history but mostly spending time with his grandchildren.
Visitation will be held at Laughlin Service Funeral Home on Sunday January 26 from 5-7pm. The funeral will be held at Aldersgate United Methodist Church on Monday, January 27 at 1pm and burial to follow at Maple Hill Cemetery. His family suggests memorial gifts to either Aldersgate Church or the American Heart Association.
