Gary Dwight McNiel of Frisco, Texas passed away July 11, 2020, at the age of 69.
He was born on November 20, 1950, to Dana Beacon and Virginia Francis (Welch) McNiel in Bremerton, Washington. Gary was raised in South Texas by Robert McNiel and Francis McNiel.
Gary graduated Uvalde High School in 1968. After graduation, he attended Texas A&M University. Gary married the love of his life, Deborah “Debbie” Lynn Greer on May 11, 1969, in San Antonio, Texas.
Gary began his career in the Instrumentation and Controls industry in Pasadena, Texas in 1972. Gary and Debbie eventually started the first McNiel family business (Garyco) in Carrollton, Texas in 1985. Gary guided the family business through several iterations and additions including I & C Sales, Inc., Garico, Inc., Team Controls, Inc., and Prime Controls, LP. One of Gary’s proudest accomplishments was the growth and success of Prime Controls which is one of the largest Industrial Automation companies in the country. Gary officially “retired” in 2019 as co-owner of Prime Controls. Gary had so much joy and happiness having the opportunity working so closely with Heather and Jace throughout his career. Because of Gary’s accomplishments, work ethic, integrity, and genuine love of fellow man, he was considered a Legend in his time.
Gary enjoyed Hunting, Fishing, Shooting, Skiing, traveling and Ranching. He actively participated in many associations including serving on the board of United States Helice Association and Dallas Gun Club. He was an Eagle Scout at age 13 and a licensed pilot.
He was of the Baptist faith.
Gary is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Debbie McNiel of Frisco, Texas; children, Heather Davis and husband, Jason of Celina, Texas; and Jace McNiel and wife, Staci of Coppell. Texas; grandchildren, Tyler McNiel, Bailey Smith, Ally McNiel, Ansley Smith, Bryson Smith, Dillan Davis, Emily Davis, and Tristan Davis; brothers and sister, Ricky McNiel and wife, Debbie of Floresville, Texas; Clarence McNiel and wife, Renae of Hondo, Texas; Margaret Schmittou and husband, Shannon of Grapevine, Texas and Robert Alan McNiel and wife, Angie of Lewisville, Texas; several nieces and nephews; and a host of other loving family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dana Beacon and Virginia McNiel.
His true passion in life was spending time with his family and his all time pride and joy were his grandchildren.
In support of our local, state, and federal govt including CDC directives and to protect the physical health, safety and well-being of our community, only a limited number of guests will be allowed to attend the Funeral Service.
A private immediate family funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m., Friday, July 17, 2020 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home Chapel, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas, and will also be live-streamed on the Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Facebook page and a recorded video will be available following the funeral service on Gary’s obituary page.
A “Come and Go” visitation will be held on Thursday, July 16th, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home. Only a limited number of guests will be allowed to enter the funeral home facility at any one time to maintain social distancing.
A “Come and Go” Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2020 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Prime Controls, 1725 Lakepointe Drive, Lewisville, Texas 75057.
Memorial contributions can be made in Gary’s name to St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital.
Facebook link for live service https://www.facebook.com/TurrentineJacksonMorrow/videos/635313714074982/