His adventuresome early childhood years were in Shelly, Idaho. His family moved to Payson when Gary started 5th grade, there he made some good, life long friendships. He participated in student government, and sports at Payson High. Summer months in Montana working for the Forest Service and as a smoke jumper and were filled with adventure. After graduation from High School and Seminary, Gary attended BYU for one year.

He served a two year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ and Latter Day Saints in the North Central States Mission (Minnesota, US and Manitoba, Canada). His service to God continued throughout his life. Service to country was in Utah National Guard. His family and children lived in various parts of the US and inevitably he engaged in community service.

Gary married his best friend ­ sweetheart in the Salt Lake Temple June 26, 1959. It has been 63½ years of happy life together.

He is survived by his loving wife Frances L. Dunford, along with his children Jeff Dunford, Connie Dunford, and Jill Stewart and by his six grandchildren: Laurie Gregerson, Brittney G Samuelson, Tiely Stewart, Sydni D Jensen, Zachery Dunford, and Derek Dunford, and his great granddaughter Sofie Jensen. He is also survived by his four sisters, Margaret Reid, Arlene Vanwagenen, Barbara Christiansen, and Ann Thayne.

He was preceded by his parents, George Osmond Dunford, and Venna Luetta Patterson, along with his sister Ruth Creer, and his two brothers Ned and Max Dunford.

Funeral services will be Saturday, February 11, 2023, at 11 am at the Cedar City Stake Center (155 E 400 S). A Viewing will be held on Friday February 10, 2023 from 5-7pm at the Cedar City Stake Center (155 E 400 S), as well Saturday February 11, from 10:00-10:30 at the Cedar City Stake Center (155 E 400 S). His internment will be in the Bloomington Cemetery in Idaho. His services are under the direction of Southern Utah Mortuary. Online condolences as well as livestreaming services at www.sumortuary.com.