Gary John Pechfelder

Gary John Pechfelder, age 75, of Winter Park, Florida, passed away on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. While it is difficult to capture such a vibrant life in just a few paragraphs, Gary’s legacy of service, passion, and family will not be forgotten. 

Born in Orlando, Gary spent part of his early childhood in New Jersey before returning to his Florida roots. He honorably served in the Air Force during the Vietnam War. Upon returning home, he began a distinguished 30+ year career with Orange County Fire Rescue. As a Lieutenant, Gary served at various stations, building lifelong friendships and gathering a lifetime of stories he loved to share.

Gary’s greatest joy was found in his hobbies and his family. Throughout the 80’s and 90’s, he and his son, Jason, spent countless days attending Spring Training games across Florida. This shared love of the game led to a cherished collection of baseball cards and memorabilia. Together, they hunted for treasures and collected autographed bats and baseballs, creating memories that spanned decades.

A true enthusiast of the classics, Gary’s pride and joy was his 1965 Mustang. He was a familiar face at classic car cruises and a proud member of The Time Travelers club. More recently, Gary and his wife, Linda, found peace at their property in the North Georgia Mountains, where they frequented The General Store and enjoyed gem mining at the Crisson Gold Mine in Dahlonega, GA. Whether he was fishing, supporting Pell’s Citrus in Osteen, or cooking a meal for loved ones, Gary lived life fully. At home, you could often find him laughing at The Three Stooges or Monty Python, or cranking up his favorite rock groups like AC/DC.

Though Gary carried a tough and rugged exterior, he truly had a heart of gold. He was a man who would do anything to help others, leaving behind a legacy of strength, kindness, and devotion.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Heinz Pechfelder and Elsie Pechfelder, and step-daughter, Rebecca Ann Bush.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Sue Pechfelder, son, Jason Woodson (Tami) Pechfelder, step-daughter, Olivia Ann Bush, grandchildren, Austin Pechfelder, Nathaniel Pechfelder, and Kaira Pechfelder, and sister, Carol Ackley.

Visitation is Wednesday, May 6, 2026 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm with funeral service starting at 7:00 pm at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (Winter Park Chapel), 3806 Howell Branch Rd, Winter Park, Florida 32792.

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The family is requesting all retirees to bring their helmets for a group photo.

To share your memories of Gary or leave a special condolence message for his family, visit the guest book below.