Gary Leslee Wills

Gary L. Wills, 68, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, due to cardiac arrest. At the time of his death, he lived in Venice, Florida with his wife of 18 years, Uli Wills and their Westie, Scarlett.

He is survived by his children, Jenna Schurch (and her husband Scott Schurch), Jared Wills (and his wife Katie Wills), Jilian Heldt (and her husband Justin Heldt) and his beloved 10 grandchildren, Addyson, Harper, Maclin, Hadley, Lane, Levi, Hayley, Max, Holly & Chase.

Gary was a force of nature. He was a true Renaissance Man, who lived life to the fullest. His passions ranged from cooking gourmet meals, grilling and smoking the most delicious meats, enjoying wines and a glass of Scotch after dinner, to playing a round of golf, traveling and collecting and smoking fine cigars.

Gary didn’t suffer fools gladly and was politically incorrect in the best possible way. He was opinionated, outspoken, stubborn and funnier than any comedian. He made friends from all walks of life and was comfortable in any setting, from the Board Room to the Corner Bar.

He was happiest, surrounded by friends and family and he will forever be loved, cherished and greatly missed.

Gary would have hated the idea of a formal funeral, tears and sorrow.

Instead, there will be a “Celebration of Life” at his favorite Cigar Bar in Venice (701 Shamrock Blvd, Venice, FL) on Saturday, November 7, 2026, starting at 3 pm, complete with an Open Bar (sorry, no Scotch - wine & beer only), Gold Rush Barbecue, tasty home-baked desserts and a well-stocked humidor. Anyone who would like to toast with a drink or smoke a cigar in Gary’s honor is welcome! In short, it will be the kind of send-off that he would have approved of!