Gary L. Golden

Gary L. Golden, 81, of El Mirage, Arizona, completed his life’s journey on November 9, 2025. Born on October 29, 1944, in LaSalle, Illinois, Gary built a dedicated 35-year career in the telephone industry, working with Illinois Bell, AT&T, Lucent, and Avaya. His strong work ethic and commitment to excellence earned him the respect and friendship of many throughout the years.

Outside of work, Gary found joy in life’s simple pleasures and lasting friendships. He spent many weekends at the Kankakee Race Track, proudly working on the #61 race car driven by his good friend Butch Kistner. He also discovered a love for camping, introduced to him by his brother-in-law, Jon Plankenhorn—starting in a tent and eventually upgrading to a beloved RV that became the backdrop for countless memories.

Gary had a heart for community, especially the Special Olympics, where he loved cheering on the athletes and supporting his son, Daniel, in every race. His warmth, humor, and genuine kindness touched everyone who knew him.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Lucille Golden.  He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Carol A. (Pytel) Golden; children Michael (Gail) Golden, Shelley (William) Lambert, and Daniel Reed Golden; grandchildren Allison (Brendan) Goler, Madison (James) Stillson, David (Shannon) Minnick, Diana (Jeremy) Kipper, Daniel (Ashley) Minnick, Megan Hale, and Melanie (Jason) Dimmitt; and great-grandchildren Audrey Stillson, Carter Minnick, Rylan Minnick, Noah Minnick, Kayla Kipper, Levi Kipper, Maci Minnick, Carly Minnick, McKenzie Hale, Colton Hale, Jacob Dimmitt, and Leah Dimmitt. He will also be dearly missed by close friends Butch and Jennifer Kistner, Ed and Diane Liss, and Denny and Brenda Dayhoff.

A Celebration of Gary’s Life will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at The Clubs at Arrowhead Country Club, 19888 N 73rd Ave, Glendale, AZ 85308.

Gary’s family invites all who knew and loved him to join in remembering a man whose life was full of love, laughter, and loyalty.