Gary Nannini passed away peacefully on November 15th, 2024, at his home in Oakdale, CA, surrounded by his wife and three daughters. He was 79 years old. Son of Jim and Daibe Fallis, he was born in Firebaugh, CA. He is survived by his wife, Sissy Stroud; three daughters and their husbands, Dawn and John Kelly, Michelle and Mike Pepe, and Kim and Dave Hill; seven grandchildren, Ben, Noah, Piper, Owen, David, Brooke, and Madden; and two brothers, Alan and Randall. He is predeceased by his parents and two brothers, Ed and David.

Gary was a veteran of the Vietnam War, serving in the Navy from 1962 – 1968 and stationed at Danang. He was a career truck driver, first hauling refrigerated food up and down the state and then cattle in the Central Valley and the Northwest for the last 40 years. He has been recognized by the Oakdale Cowboy Museum for his contribution to the cattle industry. He was also an accomplished team roper, participating in the California Team Roping Association, American Cowboy Team Roping Association, and Senior Pro Rodeo. No matter his pursuits, Gary took pride in all that he did.

Known as Nonno to his grandchildren, he shared his love of ranching, horseback riding, and the cowboy lifestyle. He was a straight-shooter and a good friend. He touched countless lives and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to Community Hospice, 4368 Spyres Way Modesto, CA, of which Gary was a long-time supporter. He will be laid to rest at the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery. His celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 11th from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Oakdale Rodeo Grounds.

The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader

The Riverbank (Calif.) News

Nov. 27, 2024