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Hartland, VT – Gary E. Sweet, 64, died on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at the Jack Byrne Center in Lebanon, NH, with his family at his side.

Gary was born on July 29, 1960, in Lebanon, NH, the son of Neil and Vena (Besaw) Sweet. He attended the Hartland Primary Schools and Hartford High School. He was married his high school sweetheart, Lisa Smith, on May 14, 1983, in Windsor, VT. They lived in Hartland. He worked as a mechanic for many years at Valley Tire, Shaker Valley Auto, and Orin's Citgo before starting his own garage, Gary's Auto, in North Hartland, where he worked until retiring in 2021. Known for his meticulous work, Gary had many loyal clients. Even after retiring, he continued plowing properties throughout the Upper Valley to keep busy.

Gary was an early riser and spent time every day with friends at Shirl's Diner in West Lebanon, and Every Thursday night was "guys night." He never missed a Roast Beef Supper at the Hartland Church. An avid hunter, he made annual trips to West Virginia with his grandson Blake, always returning with a deer. He ensured that all his grandchildren and great-grandchildren had Vermont Life Hunting Licenses. Gary was also an experienced stock car driver, owning and driving car #84 at tracks in Claremont, Canaan, Bradford, and Rumney. His talent behind the wheel led him to drive for other owners as well. He loved to watch Blake race at Bear Ridge Speedway in Bradford. He was a NASCAR fan and made yearly trips to Louden. A dedicated New York Yankees fan, he also cheered for the Dallas Cowboys.

Gary enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially playing horseshoes and hosting impressive bonfires. In 2005, he and Lisa started riding motorcycles, traveling everywhere together. Gary was very particular with his gardening and had a green thumb However, his greatest joy came from his family, especially his grandchildren, who affectionately called him "Pa." He actively participated in their lives, whether it was cleaning up on Green Up Day or attending their games and concerts.

Gary is preceded in death by a daughter, Angela Sweet, and a brother, Richard Sweet. He is survived by his beloved wife, Lisa Sweet; a daughter, Erica Sweet (Girard LeCouffe); two grandsons, Blake and Brock; a granddaughter, Lilli; step-grandson Girard LeCouffe, Jr.; and two great-grandchildren, Kylee and Kolt, all of Hartland; two brothers, Neil Sweet (Barbara) of Dalton, NH, and Bruce Sweet (Cheryl) of Ocala, FL; and a sister, Linda French of Hartland.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 8, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Knight Funeral Home in White River Junction, VT. A funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. All are welcome to attend a gathering following the Funeral at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post in White River Junction. Burial will be on May 14, 2025, at 2 p.m. in the Hartland Village Cemetery. Condolences may be expressed to Gary's family in an online guestbook at www.knightfuneralhomes.com.