He received a Bachelor of Arts from Indiana University Northwest, and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Chicago. Gary has been teaching for 20 years and is an active local artist in the community. Gary is a native of the area and now resides in Beverly Shores. Sadly, Gary lost his wife to Leukemia 5 years ago. With the help of the trainers at the YMCA, Gary was able to take his life in a new healthy direction. Through a healthier lifestyle, Gary lost 35 pounds and has kept it off for all these years. In his free time, Gary enjoys hunting, fishing, and collecting vintage music in vinyl. Gary is currently a dance student at Dimensions School of Social Dance. He has made many friendships while learning ballroom dance at Dimensions.