Gary Arleth

Gary Arleth, age 94, of Matthews, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025. He was born on November 16, 1930, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Carl and Anna (Kahle) Arleth.

Gary proudly served in the United States Navy from August 30, 1951, to August 26, 1955, during the Korean War. He was a 2nd class petty officer radioman on the minesweeper USS staff where he was awarded a divisional commendation and two personal commendations. In 1956, he married the love of his life, Leila Lutterbei, and together they raised three children: Vicki (Ed) Rusinko, Vivian (Ben) Mitchell, and Dale (Debi) Arleth.

Gary’s career with IBM took him from Cincinnati to Poughkeepsie, New York, and eventually to Jeffersonville, Vermont. After retiring from IBM, Gary drove a bus for Lamoille Union Schools, a job he loved that allowed him to connect with the community. In 2021, he made the move to Matthews, North Carolina, to live with his longtime companion and high school sweetheart, Laura York, where he spent his final years.

Gary was predeceased by his loving wife, Leila, in 1997; his son, Dale, in 2015; his brother, Norman, in 2023; and his parents, Carl and Anna Arleth. He is survived by his daughters, Vicki and Vivian; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and his companion, Laura York and her family.

Gary will be remembered for his deep devotion to God, his unwavering love for his family, and his passions. He was a lifelong fan of Laurel and Hardy and had an enduring love for all things Ohio – especially the Cincinnati Reds, Cincinnati Bengals, and Ohio State football teams.

A loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and devoted veteran. Gary will be missed for his warmth, sense of humor, and loyalty to those he loved. His presence in the world was a blessing and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Gary will be buried alongside his wife, Leila, in Arlington Memorial Cemetery in Cincinnati, Ohio. A military graveside service will be held for family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Gary’s honor.