Gary Dennis McPherson

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Gary “Mac” McPherson, who passed away peacefully on June 5th, 2026, at the age of 87. Mac was a devoted husband, loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He touched the lives of many through his kindness, generosity and unwavering love for his family. Born on February 26th, 1939, in Rapid City, South Dakota, to Elmer and Dorothy McPherson, Mac began a life marked by service, dedication, and adventure. At the age of 17, he proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving for four years as an Armorer before continuing his military career in the United States Air Force. He retired from the Air Force in 1979 with the rank of Technical Sergeant. His military service took him around the world and provided countless memories through assignments that included two tours in Vietnam, Isfahan, Iran, Yokota, Japan, and Crete, Greece, where he met the love of his life, Magdalini, to whom he was married for 59 wonderful years. Following his military retirement, Mac continued his commitment to public service as a Police Officer with Solano Community College, where he served for many years before retiring at the age of 65. One of Mac’s greatest passions was his enduring connection to Crete, which he considered his home away from home. For more than 20 years, he was a dedicated contributor to the IAS (Iraklion Air Station) website, helping preserve its history and foster connections among those who served there. Mac is survived by his beloved wife, Magdalini, his children, Brian (Andrea), Kathy (Paul), Cindy, Brad (Lisa), Marla, and his cherished grandchildren, Alexa, Karissa, Jake, Niko, Sophia, Michael, Lena and numerous great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Stuart (Nancy) McPherson of Yakima, Washington, as well as loving nieces and nephews in both the United States and Greece, where he was affectionately known as “Theo Mac.” As a devoted Greek Orthodox Christian, Mac found great joy in his faith and was an active parishioner of Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Vallejo for more than 45 years. He especially enjoyed volunteering at the church’s annual Greek Festival, where he was well known for working at the bar and enthusiastically supporting parish events and activities. Mac’s legacy of service, faith, family devotion, and friendship will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Family and friends are invited to join in celebrating Mac’s life and legacy. Trisagion Service Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church 1224 Alabama Street Vallejo Funeral Service Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church 1224 Alabama Street Vallejo, Ca Interment following at St. Alphonsus Catholic Cemetery 1801 Union Ave Fairfield, Ca Family and friends are then invited to gather for the Makaria luncheon at Bella Verdi at the Rancho Solano Golf Course, Fairfield, Ca immediately following the funeral service.

Gary Dennis McPherson

February 26, 1939 - June 5, 2026