Gary H. Deshong

After a brief hospital stay and surrounded by family, Gary. Deshong, age 80, of Landenberg, PA passed away on Friday, June 5, 2026. 

He was born in Wilmington, DE, son of the late Harold Vincent Deshong and Carolyn Mary (Sonchen) Deshong.  After graduating from John Dickinson High School, Class of 1964, he went on to serve his country honorably by enlisting in the Air Force for four years.  Upon returning home, Gary obtained his Certificate of Completion of Apprenticeship as an electrician through the State of Delaware.  He then joined the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 313 (IBEW), enjoying a career as an electrician for over 38 years. 

He is survived by his siblings, Harolyn Deshong Wardell (Denny) and Ryan R. Deshong; sister-in-law, Suzanne Taylor Deshong (Marc); and girlfriend, Susan Wheeler; nephews and nieces: Raymond Marc Deshong, Natalie Deshong McCummings (Bryan), Andrew Deshong, Denise Mandi (Vincent) and Debra Pellegrino (Micky); great nieces and nephews:  Luke Bryan McCummings, Kara Ann Deshong, Aubree Taylor McCummings and Kaden James Deshong.  He was also a grandfather figure to Sue’s grandchildren:  Michael, David, Kari and Marlee Diienno and great grandfather to Benjamin Diienno.  

In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by his brother, Marc W. Deshong.

He was a motor cycle enthusiast and enjoyed riding his Harley with friends and camping with them in Virginia.  After retiring in 2008, he got very involved volunteering with the Kalmar Nyckel.  One of his favorite tasks was educating and answering questions when tours came through.  Mastering the techniques of tying knots for all ropes used on the Kalmar Nyckel was quite the accomplishments and something for which he was proud.  Gary completed over 10,000 hours of service and was recognized with a carving of his head on the bow of the boat.

Family and friends are invited to visit at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Pike Creek on Wednesday, June 24 from 10:00 – 11:00AM, with a remembrance service beginning at 11:00AM.  Interment with military honors will follow at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear.

In lieu of flowers, donations designated to the Educational Fund in Gary’s memory may to sent to:  Kalmar Nyckel, 1124 E 7th Street, Wilmington, DE 19801. 

The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at the Christiana Hospital for the exceptional care Gary received during his stay.

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