Gary Robert Bilek, born November 20, 1951, in North Hollywood CA, passed on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at the age of 71. Born to Alice and John Bilek, he has three siblings Ruth Podielski, John Bilek (passed), and Betty Reilly. Gary met his wife Kathy of 53 years while attending St. Genevieve High School.  They married shortly after high school and had their only child, a son Richard Bilek in 1970. Gary is survived by his wife Kathleen Bilek, son Richard Bilek, Daughter in law Jennifer Keiner and grandchildren Katerina Bilek and Sophia Bilek.

Gary lived in Southern California his entire life growing up in North Hollywood CA. Once married and with his young family, he moved to Saugus CA and lived there for over 30 years.  Eventually Gary and Kathy moved to Huntington Beach CA to be close to their grandchildren during retirement.

Gary led an active lifestyle which started in high school sports playing football and basketball.  This carried over to his adult life with his family that included snow skiing, water skiing, river rafting, and other sports like racquetball, tennis, and anything competitive.  Gary's influence on his son was evident by his own activity in sports and they played almost anything you can think of together.  His close high school friend John Slocum organized an annual sports weekend event that Gary and his son participated in that could and should have been renamed the Bilek invitational!

Gary's favorite activity was snow skiing with his wife, son and close friend Mary Meyer to round out a fearless foursome.  June Lake ski resort in the Sierra mountains was a favorite spot to get a cabin and enjoy the snow and mountain air.  Gary liked it because it was a smaller, less traveled but beautiful mountain landscape. June Lake offered the best tree skiing for fresh powder off the groomed trails and he and his son often raced to the bottom carving their own paths.

Gary is remembered as a dedicated and loving husband, father, and hard-working person. He never asked for anything but was always there to help others and enjoy life outdoors with friends and family.  He will by missed by all!