Carl M. Gajarsky, 91, of Troy, MO, passed away on Friday, December 15, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. He was born August 16, 1932 in Canton Twp. Washington, County Pennsylvania to his parents, Stephen and Irene (Buchta) Gajarsky. He was the next to the youngest of 11 children and he was the last survivor of them. He grew up in Washington, Pennsylvania and lived there until joining the U.S. Navy in 1950. He was enlisted during the Korean Conflict for 3-1/2 years, serving 1-1/2 years as a Ceremonial Guard in Washington, D.C. He also spent some time aboard ship on the Mediterranean Sea. Upon discharge from the Navy, he studied at DeVry Institute of Technology in Chicago, Illinois (now known as DeVry University) and also through McDonnell Douglas to become an Electrical Engineer. It was during this time that he married his sweetheart, Patricia "Pat" Dudash. They were blessed with four daughters. He worked for McDonnell Douglas most of his adult life until retiring from there in 1987. After retirement, he kept busy with sports, fishing, enjoying his grandchildren and much volunteer handyman work for the O'Fallon Christian Church where he was a member at the time. Carl really enjoyed playing sports. He played baseball, basketball, softball, volleyball, loved to run (even marathons) and cycling. One of his greatest achievements was running in the New York Marathon. He also played several of these sports in the Senior Olympics where he accumulated quite a few medals.

He was preceded in death by his parents and 10 sibilings. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Patricia, who was the love of his life. He was immensely attentive, loyal and adoring of her for their entire 68 years of marriage. Surviving are their 4 daughters, Cheryl Costello, Kathy Tourigny (Greg, deceased), Susan Gaines (Reece), and Mary Finch (Tim), 8 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and friends. They all say they couldn't have asked for a better dad, grandpa, relative and friend!

To say that all of his grandchildren were the highlight of his life is an understatement. They made his heart so full. Family was one of the most important things to him, along with his love of God. He was a member of Harvester Christian Church in Troy, MO. He truly was the best example of a Christian man. He definitely is leaving a huge hole in the family. He had the most beautiful blue eyes, the best smile and a great 'sarcastic' sense of humor. Thousands and thousands of memories will help to fill that hole, but all are so happy that he is at peace and in his new home with God and reunited with his wife.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 30, 2023 at the McCoy-Blossom Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1304 Boone Street, Troy, MO, 63379, 636-528-8244, with a Memorial Service held there at 1:00 p.m. Officiating will be Pastor Gus Vega. Inurnment to follow in Troy City Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to: "Operation Smile Club", c/o the funeral home. This was one of his favorite charities that he gave to. Family and friends are invited to sign the online guestbook at: www.mccoyblossomfh.com