Gary Dean Stanfield passed away on September 30, 2026, surrounded by loving family. He was a naturally friendly person with a warm, easy-going sense of humor, a listening ear, a helping hand, a great dad, and the fun grampa.

He was born on St. Patrick’s Day in 1940 to Velma and Irvan Stanfield in Hutchinson, Kansas. He joined the Air Force in 1958 and completed two tours in Vietnam, where he was the very definition of the silent hero, saving the lives of many of his fellow soldiers. During his time in the military, he was stationed in Okinawa, where he began training in Shorinji-ryu karate. He was the third senior living student of O’Sensei Fusei Kise and one of the most talented he ever trained, eventually becoming a supreme grandmaster tenth-degree black belt. He retired from the service as a Master Sergeant in 1980.

Never afraid of a challenge, he embraced the computer age when it came, dabbled in oil painting, and indulged a life-long dream to play the banjo. He could also work on cars at all hours of the day and night, enjoyed watching the New Orleans Saints win or lose, and savored a good cup of hot coffee each morning in winter or summer.

He cherished his family and was adored by them. He is survived by his children, Shelby (Donnie), Jack, Andy (Lisset), and Ann Marie (Darin); his grandchildren, Erin (Kyle), J.D. (Carla), John (Brandyn), Matthew, Nathan (Blakley), and Tanner; and great grandchildren, Finley, JoJo, Jackson, Rosie, and Luke. He is also survived by his sister, Donna; his brother, Frank; nieces, and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Don and Fred; brother-in-law, Dean; sister-in-law, Pat; and daughter-in-law, Rose.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Gary’s memory by making a donation to the Disabled American Veterans or the American Legion, and an be sent in care of Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave, Hutchinson, KS 67502.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Gary was loved deeply and missed beyond measure.