Gary E. O'Mara

Gary E. O’Mara, 80, of Laramie, formerly of Encampment, died Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2015 at his home from pancreatic cancer, after battling the disease for more than four years.

Gary was born in Walthill, Neb., to Ernest and Velma O’Mara June 26, 1935, the youngest in a family of two brothers, and four sisters. He graduated school in Pender, Neb., worked on a farm with his brother-in-law, and volunteered to be drafted in the army and served in Germany. After returning home he enrolled in Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln, Neb., and graduated with a B.A. in education and social science. He later earned his master’s degree from the University of Nebraska in secondary education and political science. He later received his School Administration Degree in 1983 from the University of Wyoming.

While at Wesleyan he met and married his wife, Barbara “Bobbi” Organ. Gary taught 19 years in Lincoln while his wife was a police detective.

While vacationing in Wyoming during the early 60s, the couple operated Kennaday Peak and Blackhall Lookouts for four summers for the U.S. Forest Service, later moving to Laramie where Gary taught the next 20 years in Rock River, Wyo., and both the Laramie High School and Junior High. After moving to and living in Centennial, the couple retired and moved to their rural home near Encampment, Wyo.

For several years Gary was a substitute teacher for Encampment and Saratoga Schools. He also taught one year in Walden, Colo.

Gary is survived by his wife, Bobbi; his older sister, Bonnie Young of Pender, Neb .; and several nieces and nephews. Gary was preceded in death by his parents; his three sisters; and his two brothers.

Cremation has taken place. Per Gary’s wishes there will be no services scheduled.

To send condolences or to sign the online guestbook go to www.montgomerystryker.com