Obituary of Gary T. Platek

Gary Theodore Platek

September 3, 1944 – May 16, 2024

Gary T. Platek, devoted son, father, husband, grandfather and friend passed away unexpectedly at the age of 79 at home on Thursday, May 16, 2024.

Born in Pavilion, NY to the late Theodore and Mariann Platek, Gary was the eldest of three children. He excelled both academically and athletically growing up and attended State University of New York at Brockport for both his undergraduate and graduate degrees.

As a math teacher, Gary devoted 34-years to the Penfield High School community. Those who knew Gary understood the profound effect he had on his students and colleagues, and would not be surprised to learn he was nominated as one of Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers in 2002. He was also honored as namesake of the prestigious Gary Platek Award in Math Excellence which is presented annually to a Penfield sophmore student. He maintained and enjoyed many life-long friendships with colleagues and students alike through his last days.

Gary loved sports and was a huge NY Yankees fan. He was involved in athletics throughout his life and especially excelled at playing golf. He was a cherished member of several clubs in the area. Always on the go, Gary also officiated hundreds of High School and College-level softball, basketball and soccer games. He was presented the NYS Collegiate Softball Officials, Umpire of the Year award in 2007.

He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 39 years, Geraldine (Yarbrough), his children, Jason Platek (Sarah), Shannon Blair (Ken), Ronald Frantz (Maegan), Lauren Geuss, Kim Shea (Matt); sister Gayle Stathearn, Brother Randy (Donna), and their children. He is also survived by ten grandchildren, who absolutely adored their grandpa. He was affectionately known as the baby whisperer, lulling each little one into pure relaxation whenever he held them. This gentle voice would later become the one heard above all others, as he cheered for every game, recital, play, special event and celebration he could attend. Truly, he was their number one fan.

Gary will be missed dearly by all those who knew him. Friends and family are invited to share their memories and pictures at Contributions to the tribute of Gary T. Platek | Jennings Nulton & ... (jenningsnultonmattlefh.com). 

Visitation will be held at the Jennings, Nulton & Mattle Funeral Home, 1704 Penfield Road, Penfield, NY on Saturday, June 1 from 1:00pm-4:00pm. 

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the American Heart Association or the Leukemia Foundation.