Dates
Gary Martin Motl, 74, of San Angelo, Texas, passed away at home on May 7, 2026.
Born on August 20, 1951, in San Angelo, Texas, Gary was an adventurous boy who loved animals and developed a lifelong love of music. He attended Lake View High School and Angelo State University, carrying with him a curiosity and energy that would define his life.
Gary dedicated much of his life to public service. After working many years with Montgomery Wards Management Training, he joined the San Angelo Fire Department in September 1979 as a Firefighter/EMT. He loved helping others, and his dedication and courage earned him the respect of colleagues and community alike. He retired in June 2006, leaving a legacy of service and compassion.
Music was a central part of Gary’s life. A talented bass guitarist, he played with the bands Purple Vision and Clearwater, sharing his joy of music with friends and family most of his adult life. He also found peace and pride working on the family farm north of San Angelo, where he tended goats, cows, and chickens. He was always eager to share stories of his animals’ antics. Gary was a master carpenter that could build anything. He could look at a picture and duplicate it. This talent was handed down from his father Martin who shared the same passion. He built many furniture pieces for family and friends.
A true family man, Gary cherished time in the kitchen, especially preparing his famous "fish and fries" with fish caught on fishing trips with his kids or his fishing buddies. He was an amazing cook and loved to barbecue.
On September 1, 1972, he married his beloved Deborah, "Deb" and together they built a life full of love, laughter, and cherished memories with their 3 wonderful children. He loved to watch his children and grandchildren following them for gymnastics, cheerleading, dancing, basketball and baseball games. Poppa was proud of all of them.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Martin W. Motl and Pearl R. Motl. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Deborah Motl; children Justin Motl, Courtney Motl Cleveland and husband Kurt, and Jared Motl and wife Brianne. Three adored grandchildren, Lane Weishuhn, Violet Cleveland and Cora Motl. He is also survived by his loving sisters, Lidice Wright of Spokane, Washington, Becky Ellwanger and husband Steve of San Angelo, and several nieces and nephews that he loved dearly.
The family will receive friends for visitation from 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M., Monday, May 11, 2026, at Harper Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, May 12, at 10:00 a.m. at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo, with burial to follow at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. Pallbearers will be Bobby Stevens, Leon Langley, Robert Harris, Terry Stinnett, Chuck Patterson, and Ron Partusch.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Catholic Outreach Services of San Angelo.
Gary’s kindness, humor, and zest for life touched everyone he met. He will be remembered not only for his accomplishments but for the love, laughter, and music he brought into the lives of all who knew him. He will be sorely missed.