Gary W. Yawnick, 81, of Union, passed away peacefully at his home on July 24, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

He was a devoted fan of the NY Giants and the NY Yankees, but nothing brought him greater joy than cheering on his children and grandchildren at their sporting events.

Gary proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force. He also took great pride in sharing that he was born on the same day as the historic raising of the American flag in Iwo Jima.

For 25 years Gary was an employee of the Board of Education for the Township of Union.

Beloved husband of 54 years to Marilynn Yawnick. Devoted father of Keith Yawnick, his wife Vicki, Brian W. Yawnick, his wife Michelle, Craig Yawnick, his wife Jessica, and his pet companion Max. Cherished grandfather of Jaxon and Maddox Yawnick, Logan and Simona Yawnick, and Luke Yawnick. Dear brother of Ronald Yawnick, his wife Denise. Loved by in-laws Nick Moribaldi and Aurora Hernandez, Tom and Debbie Ginefra and Joe and Maria Nagy. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Gary was pre-deceased by his parents Max and Mary Patricia Yawnick.

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Wednesday, July 29th from 4-7pm.  The funeral mass will be held on Thursday, July 30th, 10am, at Holy Spirit Church in Union, followed by the interment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Hanover.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Spero Hospice by visiting: https://www.sperohospicenj.com/