Gary L. Uttrich, 52, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away on February 26, 2021.
Born in Corpus Christie, Texas, on June 2, 1968, Gary grew up in Rockland County, NY. A natural athlete, Gary was a baseball player and long-distance runner in his youth who tried out as a walk-on for both the Phillies and his beloved Mets. He went on to serve as a "ringer" on countless softball teams and pool leagues. The eldest of six, Gary was the leader of the pack and took great pride in each of his siblings. He had an especially close bond with his “kid sister,” Kelly, often referring to her as his "twin, minus seventeen years."
Gary’s love for the New York Mets and Giants proudly traveled with him when he permanently moved to Delaware in the early 90s. Gary never missed an opportunity to bust chops or heckle someone, especially living in rival Philadelphia territory. After decades spent as a cook, bartender and restaurant manager, Gary purchased his pride and joy, Murph’s Irish Pub, in 2012. With the support of his loving partner, Deb, he dedicated his life to Murph's and was honored to be named as "Best Irish Pub" several times by the Delaware Happening. Through Murph’s, Gary gave back to countless charities and causes within the Wilmington community. Every Thanksgiving and Christmas, Gary opened his doors and heart to feed anyone who didn’t have the means or a place to go. Gary found happiness in creating an environment that felt like home to so many.
Gary was a ray of light to everyone who was lucky enough to cross his path. He was an avid reader and news junkie who could talk about any topic for hours. He loved to tell stories and would make sure everyone in the room felt comfortable. He had a heart of gold and offered a helping hand to all.
Gary enjoyed riding his Harley, crab feasts in the summer and any reason to host a great party. His devotion to celebrating Halloween and St. Patrick’s Day were as legendary as his dedication to crafting beautiful trophies for the winners of his annual chili cook-off.
Gary is survived by the love of his life, Deborah Hague; his daughter, Cassidy Rule; his parents, Margaret and Peter Garrison; his siblings, Robert Edwards (Jennifer), Sara Stach (Max), Erica Uttrich-Hervey (Stephen DeMartino), Kelly Garrison, and Keith Garrison; nephews, James and Mathew Hervey and Jacob Stach; step-mother, Elizabeth Uttrich, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, his large, loving group of Murph’s family and friends as well as his two fur-babies, Declan and Murphy. Gary is predeceased by his father, Larry Uttrich.
A memorial celebration of Gary’s life will be held Saturday, March 13, 2021 at Murph’s Irish Pub, 401 Philadelphia Pike, Wilmington, Delaware beginning at 2 p.m. Covid restrictions will be enforced and attendance will be monitored throughout the day.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the Delaware Humanity Society, 701 A Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801.