Garry Louis Shelly's Obituary
Garry Louis Shelly (aka Wilbur), age 74, of Farmington Hills, passed away Tuesday, September 19, 2023. Garry was the oldest of seven children born to Wilbur and Alice Shelly of Hazel Park, Michigan.
Garry enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at age 17 after convincing his mother to sign the waiver allowing him to enlist as a minor. He earned several combat medals, including the Purple Heart for a service-related injury sustained in Vietnam. He served on active duty for three years and then in the reserves for an additional three years.
Following his military service, Garry was a Hazel Park Policeman for 20 years. He retired with numerous commendations from Hazel Park and neighboring cities. He was an active member of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge 130 in Ferndale for over 30 years and held several offices including President, Vice President, Past President, and Secretary. He was awarded Member of the Year three times and enjoyed continuing his life of service with his fellow members and friends. He was also a member of the Detroit Metro Police Emerald Society.
Garry was an avid Harley-Davidson lover and owner. He was a member of the American Legion and Legion Riders, and the Michigan Blue Knights. He was passionate about riding and spent a big part of every summer going on cross-country trips with his friends and fellow riders. He enjoyed volunteering whenever he could. He loved to golf with his friends and donated his time and money toward various golf fundraisers. He was a kind and generous man who loved to tell jokes and make people laugh. His fun-loving spirit and generous heart will forever be cherished by all who knew him.
Garry is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Pam (Durbin) Shelly; his children, Christi (Shelly) Moncrief of Texas, Bradley Shelly of Michigan, and Miranda Shelly of Virginia; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; siblings Jean Kamel and Helen (Mitzi) Welch. He is preceded in death by his parents, Alice and Wilbur Shelly and his brothers Bill and Jay Shelly.
Visitation will be held from 2:00 – 7:00 pm on Tuesday, September 26 at Hopcroft Funeral Home, 31145 John R Rd, Madison Heights, MI. A service dedication will begin at 7:00 pm.
Inurnment of Ashes which will include U.S. Marine Corps Honors will begin promptly at 10:30 am on Wednesday, September 27 at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI.
Memorial contributions may be made in Garry’s honor to the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #130 (2233 Burdette St, Ferndale MI 48220) or the American Cancer Society.
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