Gary Edward Lehl, 84, of North Platte, passed away June 8, 2022 at Great Plains Health.  He was born on April 25, 1938 to Hank and Beaulla (Schrotberger) Lehl in Paxton.

Gary grew up in Grant and graduated from Grant High School.  He lived in various places before settling in North Platte.  Gary married Sue Carol Hughes on April 15, 1958 in Raton, N.M. and to this union, two sons were born, Doug and Marty.  Carol was the center of his life and Gary adored her in every aspect.

Gary worked for Ideal Truck Lines as a driver for several years.  He retired in 1994.  After Carol passed away in 2008, Gary filled his spare time visiting with his many friends and visiting his son in Colorado.  He loved going to the Lincoln Highway Diner every morning for coffee and doughnuts.  He was known to pick on people and play jokes.  Gary had a huge heart and loved animals, especially his dog Coco.  Gary was known for feeding all of the stray cats in his neighborhood.  He was an avid Husker fan and loved Husker football.

Gary is survived by his son, Marty (Lisa) Lehl of Frederick, CO; sister, Loryss Porter of Amarillo, TX; brother, Mike (Adreinne) Lehl of Blair, NE; grandchildren, Chelsey Lehl, Zarek Lehl, Tyler Lehl, Jaiden Rose Lehl; cousins, Ken and MaryAnn Schroeder.

Gary was preceded in death by his wife, Carol; parents, Hank and Beaulla; son, Doug Lehl; infant grandson, Zachery; brother, Alvin Lehl; special friend Sharon Thompson.

The family of Gary would like to give a special "Thank You" to his best friend and cousin Ken Schroeder and his neighbor and guardian angel, Claudia Cable.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Gary Lehl Memorial Fund established at First National Bank.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, June 15, 2022 at Harvest Christian Fellowship Church with Pastor Jeremy Rinke officiating.  Gary will be laid to rest with his wife at Floral Lawns Memorial Gardens.  Visitation will be held noon-7:00 p.m., with family present 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., Monday, June 13, 2022 at Carpenter Memorial Chapel, which is entrusted with arrangements.