Gary Joseph DeRosa, 70, passed on Wednesday, August 21, 2024.

He was born on March 27,1954, in Brooklyn, N.Y., the oldest son of the late Jerry and Rose DeRosa.

Gary is survived by his wife of 39 years, Patty DeRosa; his brother Dave DeRosa and wife Sandra; sister Linda Hoffman and family; his nephew, Derek DeRosa and wife Alyssa; and numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews, along with treasured families and friends.

Not to be forgotten, he was preceded in death by his English Bull Dogs, Haley and Izzy, his “Baby Girls.”

Gary graduated from New Field High School in Seldon, N.Y., in 1972. He was instrumental in organizing his 50th High School Reunion in September of 2022. The event was an amazing highlight for all those who attended, reconnecting and renewing childhood friendships. After high school, he attended the University of Tennessee.

Gary began his lifetime career in Houston, Texas, culminating in his company DeRosa Architectural Woodworking, a highly specialized and successful venture catering to clients such as President Bush Sr., Dusty Hill of ZZ Top, and Roger Clemons. Many of his clients were from the exclusive area of River Oaks, Texas.

On a personal note, Gary designed and built his and Patty’s dream home in Houston, Texas, where they resided until their retirement.

Following his retirement, they moved to North Carolina, where he and Patty had their present home built on Lake Norman in Mooresville.

Gary then pursued his lifelong dream of owning Corvettes with his final one being a red 2019 C7. He and Patty made numerous friends and enjoyed many outings and gatherings with the QCCC Vette Club.

Gary DeRosa will be interred in Wading River, N.Y., at a later date.

The family requests in lieu of flowers that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org) in memory of Gary DeRosa, who battled courageously for over four years with cancer.

I know you are at peace now. Until I see you again. Drive on, “Flash,” in your fancy red Corvette.

Cavin-Cook Funeral Home & Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the DeRosa family. Condolences may be made to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.