Gary Lee Hauser

Gary Lee Hauser, a lifelong resident of Akron, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on June 13, 2026, at the age of 76, just four days shy of his 77th birthday.

Born on June 17, 1949, Gary was a graduate of East High School and spent his life surrounded by family, friends, music, and the outdoors. He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Sharon L. Hauser, whom he married on November 4, 1972; his sons, Jason R. Hauser (Megan Rose Hauser) and Jesse A. Hauser (Christina Mulhollen); and his six cherished grandchildren, Jaxson Cole, Taylor Paige (David Eddy), Jesse Hauser II ("Bubby") (Julia Goodrich), Zachary Ryan, Quinn Rylee, and Elizabeth Louise.

Throughout his life, Gary worked in a variety of trades, including as an electrician and in telecommunications. He was resourceful, mechanically inclined, and could usually find a way to fix whatever needed fixing.

Gary had a lifelong love of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, firearms, hunting, and fishing. Whether on the open road, in the woods, or by the water, he found joy in the simple things and in sharing those experiences with family and friends.

Perhaps the only thing that rivaled Gary's love of Harley-Davidson motorcycles was his love of music. As the rhythm guitarist for the band Thunder and Lightning, he spent countless hours practicing, performing throughout Ohio, and hosting band rehearsals at his home. Family and friends knew that it never took much encouragement for Gary to pick up his guitar and start playing. Whether on stage, in a garage, or in his living room surrounded by friends, music brought him joy and created lasting memories for everyone around him. His home was often filled with the sounds of guitars, laughter, and friends gathered together.

Those who knew Gary knew he could be stubborn and opinionated, but they also knew him to be fiercely loyal, funny, and unapologetically himself. He never hesitated to tell you exactly what he thought, whether you asked or not. Beneath that tough exterior was a man who deeply loved his family, his friends, and the things he was passionate about. Proud of his family, his Harley, his music, and the long white beard he had worn since marrying Sharon more than 50 years ago, Gary lived life his own way and left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Gary leaves behind a lifetime of memories: little league baseball games, hunting and fishing trips, motorcycle rides, family gatherings, and countless songs shared with friends. Though his passing leaves a tremendous void, the memories he created and the lives he touched will remain with those who loved him.

His family takes comfort in imagining him today with a freshly polished Harley nearby, a guitar in his hands, and that unmistakable white beard, watching over all of us until we meet again.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in our hearts.

A Celebration of Life honoring Gary Lee Hauser will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Peppe & Luigis, 240 5th Street SE, Barberton, Ohio 44203. Family and friends are invited to attend. Close friends and family are welcome to remain afterward as we continue sharing stories, memories, and celebrating Gary's life.

To share a memory of Gary or leave a special message with his family, please visit the guest book below.