Gary A. Hermanson, 55, of Mass City, passed away on June 8, 2009, at his home after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Gary was born in Ontonagon on Nov. 19, 1953 to Walfred Hermanson and Alma (Kemppainen) Hermanson. He graduated from Ontonagon High School in 1972.

Shortly after, he enlisted in the army and served for five years, during which time he married Jennifer Schoch on Aug. 16, 1974.

After honorable discharge, they returned to Mass City and he sought employment at the Ontonagon Paper Mill where he worked for 29 years. Gary also ran his own business, The Algmah Trading Post, for several years.

He was an avid motorcyclist and also enjoyed scuba diving, hunting, fishing and many other outdoor activities.

Gary is survived by his children, Holly of Goldsboro, N.C., Jeromy of Mass City and his fiance, Stephanie Makey (Ashley, Ryan) of Ontonagon; sisters, Denise Wilcox (Herb Johnson), and Betty (Bill) Latvis of Mass City; brothers, Jack of Mass City and James (Sara) of Birmingham, Mich.; brothers-in-law, John (Debra) Schoch, Jerry (Bobbi) Schock, both of Ontonagon; sister-in-law, Candi (Mel) Gardner of Kansas City, Mo.; grandchildren, Cannon and Riley Hermanson and Rowan and Peyton Potter; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Walfred; mother, Alma; stepfather, Bernard; wife, Jennifer, son, Gary John; brother, Jerry; sister, Delores; and niece, Stacey.

There will be a memorial gathering on Saturday, June 13, at 3 p.m. at the VFW Post East Branch, Mass City. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Ontonagon County Cancer Association.