Gary Arden Shutes

Gary Arden Shutes, age 71, of Three Rivers, Michigan, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2026, at the Orchards of Three Rivers.

Gary was born on September 21, 1954, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the son of Bernard and Frances (Butler) Shutes, Sr. He spent his entire life in Three Rivers, where he built a reputation as a hardworking, dependable man who dedicated himself to providing for his family.

Gary worked as a machinist at Guntie in Elkhart for 20 years before later retiring from American Axle. He believed in giving 100 percent to everything he did, a work ethic that remained with him throughout his life.

As a young man, Gary attended St. Paul's Lutheran Church. During his school years, he excelled in athletics, earning five varsity letters, participating in track and field, and serving as the football team's manager. Those who knew him remembered him as a true go-getter who was determined to be the very best in whatever he pursued.

Gary had many passions that reflected both his creative and mechanical talents. He loved working on automobiles, especially his cherished 1954 Chevrolet Bel Air and his Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 Twin Turbo. He also had a creative side and enjoyed graphic design, painting, drawing, and sculpting. Music was another love throughout his life. While he famously disliked The Beatles in his younger years, he eventually came to appreciate their music. His favorite artists included Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, AC/DC, Guns N' Roses, and many other classic rock bands from the 1970s.

Friends and family remember Gary as a straightforward, honest man who welcomed thoughtful discussion. He enjoyed debating different viewpoints, always striving to understand every side while remaining respectful of others. In his younger years, Gary was known as a free spirit who enjoyed Black & Mild cigars, a glass of wine, and entertaining friends with flaming shots as a favorite party trick. He was outgoing, connected with classmates and friends alike, and was often the life of the party.

Above all else, Gary was a devoted father and grandfather. He worked tirelessly throughout his life to provide for those he loved, and his family was always his greatest source of pride.

He is survived by his son, Jason Shutes of Three Rivers/Jones, Michigan; his grandson, Colton Shutes of Three Rivers/Jones, Michigan; his sister, Margaret (Tim) O'Connell of Portage, Michigan; his brother, Bernard "Skip" (Kathy) Shutes, Jr. of Three Rivers, Michigan; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Frances Shutes, Sr.; his beloved daughter, Jeni Shutes; the recent passing of his grandson, Kody Shutes; his sister, Sharon Seals; and his former wife, Coreen Smith.

The family will receive friends on Friday, July 10, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Ray Funeral Services, 305 Rock River Ave., Three Rivers, Michigan 49093. A time of sharing memories will begin at 6:45 p.m.

Cremation will follow the services, with the burial of his cremated remains to take place at Riverside Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made directly to the family. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Please visit www.rayfuneralservices.com to gather and share in Gary's memory.