On Thursday, July 14, 2022, Gary Lee Fair, loving father of 3 children, grandfather of 7, passed away at age 73.

Gary was born, July 13, 1949 in Nebraska City, Nebraska to Joe and Betty (Fair). Much of Gary Lee's young life was spent moving about the Midwest, spending much of his adolescence in Catoosa and Oklahoma City, OK. Gary Lee graduated from Oklahoma University, with a Masters Degree in Library Science. After graduation, he joined the Peace Corp and spent 3 years in Afghanistan. His time in Afghanistan gave Gary spiritual direction and in turn, he became a devout Baha'i. While in Afghanistan, Gary had the honor of being embraced by The Wahidi Family, who adopted him as their own. Over the years, their bond remained strong. Upon returning from the Peace Corp, Gary took a job with ELS Language Centers as Center Director in Chicago, IL where he continued to work for 45 years. During his long tenure, he developed lifelong friendships and mentored thousands of international students through English teachings. It was at ELS that he met Ana Dolores Batallas and together they had 3 children.

Gary Lee spent much of his life traveling the world. He enjoyed his retirement traveling with "The Crew", brother Mike, sister-in-law Kim and bunk mate, Kathy. Favorite trips included: Alaskan cruise, winters in Texas, annual trips through Mexico, and visiting his children in Maui and Chicago.

Gary Lee loved life, but more importantly, he lived to impact the lives of others. He had a genuine passion for his children, faith and teaching through adventure. Everything was a lesson, EVERYTHING and this shaped many people's lives. He was reliable, generous and loved with his whole heart, unconditionally. He was loved by everyone who ever met him and brought a tremendous amount of light and education to others.

Gary was preceded in death by; his parents, Joe and Betty Fair.

He is survived by; his children Joseph Marcelo, Michael Anthony (Jeanette), and Ileta Maria Elizabeth (Adam) Offermann, his loving grandchildren; Dylan and Lauren Fair, Emmett, Eilis and Charlee Fair, Porter and Indy Offermann, Mother of his children, Ana Fair, brother, Michael (Kimberly) Fair.

His loving family will be forever grateful for the time they had with him, the individuals they became through his teachings, and the wonderful lives they've lived because of him. He was selfless. He will be missed by his family and friends every moment, of every day, forever and always. His legacy will live on as imprints in our hearts.

Celebration Of Life will be held in Chicago at a later date. Arrangements are by Sisco Funeral Home in Pea Ridge, Arkansas. Burial will be in Union Chapel Cemetery in Garfield, Arkansas.

Online condolences may be made at siscofuneralhome.net