Gary E. McGovern, age 86, of Canton, passed away June 14, 2026, in Canton. He was born prematurely on January 18, 1940, to Harry Patrick and Ruth (Lahr) McGovern in Canton, Ohio. He graduated from Louisville High School in 1958 as valedictorian and senior class president, and Muskingum College in 1962, cum laude and member of the Stag Club fraternity. He also attended Indiana University Graduate School of Business, and had a law degree from LaSalle Extension University. He worked for five years as an industrial engineer and foreman at Berger Manufacturing Division of Republic Steel, and 10 years at Holiday Designs of Sebring, Ohio, as Plant Manager and Vice President. He finished his career by working 15 years at M.A. Knight Division of Koch Engineering of Akron, Ohio, as Plant Manager and then Purchasing and Traffic Manager. After his retirement in 1994, he volunteered for 25 years as a tutor at Avondale Elementary School. He also avidly pursued his love of golf, with 20 career holes-in-one. He and his wife were avid travelers, near and far around the world. He was a member of Trinity United Church of Christ for many years. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Roberta, and two daughters, Kris Young of North Royalton and Erin McGovern of Columbus, Ohio. Also surviving are two grandsons, Jason Young of Parma and Brian (Michaela) Young of Independence. He was preceded in death by his parents.