In Memory
Gary Eugene Pond
May 4, 1947 - Feb. 9, 2021
After a courageous and well fought battle with cancer, Gary Eugene Pond let go and let God take him home on February 9, 2021. Gary was born in South Bend on May 4, 1947 to Cecil Elwood and Betty Jane (Alber) Pond who preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death were Chesler, Lancer, Lady, Kimberly, Cloie, and Emma. He is survived by his wife, Martha Barcus, his children Jonathon Pond and Heather Pond, both currently residing in Mishawaka, IN, his stepson Brett Lewis of Portland, OR, his sisters Linda Rea of Spring Hill, MI, and Constance Pond-Hubbard (Glenn) of New York, NY, and his dog Molly.
Gary graduated from Culver Military Academy in 1966 and regrets missing his 55-year reunion. He attended Indiana University in Bloomington for three semesters. In 1968, Gary married Patricia (Stillwagon) Pond. Although no longer married, they have remained friends. Gary has always been grateful to Pat for saving his life and for her excellent mothering of their children.
Gary worked as a regional sales manager for Wheel Horse, a company that started in the garage of his grandfather, Elmer Eugene Pond, in 1946. He later sold hyperbaric oxygen chambers for Curran Medical. In 1990 he and his father started Porter Case, a company that manufactured carry-on size luggage that featured a built-in cart, and Gary served as president of the company.
Gary loved sailing and completed many Chicago-Mackinac races. He also loved skiing and enjoyed several trips to Courchevel to ski in the French Alps.
On Labor Day weekend in 1992, Gary was introduced to Martha Barcus by mutual friends which resulted in a deep and loving relationship and marriage on 8/28/2013. As a couple, they supported many of the local cultural groups including the South Bend Symphony Orchestra, Fischoff Chamber Music Association, South Bend Civic Theatre, South Bend Chamber Singers, Amish Acres, and Wagon Wheel Theatre in Warsaw.
The family wishes to thank Michiana Hematology Oncology and Center for Hospice for their outstanding care and compassion.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Gary’s name to the Culver Educational Foundation, 1300 Academy Road #153, Culver, IN 46511 or online at https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/8112/donations/new; South Bend Symphony Orchestra, 127 N. Michigan Street, South Bend, IN 46601; or South Bend Civic Theatre, 403 N. Main Street, South Bend, IN 46601; or any charity of your choice.
Gary’s last wishes were for love to his friends and peace on earth.
Arrangements for the Pond family are in the care of the Palmer Funeral Home – Guisinger Chapel. Online condolences may be shared at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.
09/19/2022 DEC
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