Gary Allen Slaback,76, was born on December 11, 1947 in Richland Center Wisconsin, and passed away July 11, 2024 in Geraldine Montana. Gary was born to Merlin and Doris Slaback in Richland Center Wisconsin, joining his sister Rita.  Gary spent his childhood in Richland Center, graduated from high school then joined the Navy, April 24th of 1968 and was stationed out of San Francisco, Ca.  He was active overseas for 1 year, 10 months and 26 days.  On March 27th 1969 Gary joined the Navel Reserves.  He spent his life in Wisconsin, Idaho, and Montana.  In 1995, Gary met the love of his life and soulmate, Sharon Tesher, at a sweetheart dance and were married on Sept. 21, 1996, in Polson, MT. They enjoyed dancing, horseback riding, attending rodeos, and quilting. After living in both Montana and Idaho, they settled in Geraldine, Mt in 2003, where they found a wonderful community of friends.  Sadly, Gary's sole-mate and one true love, passed away in May of 2010.  Gary sold their larger home and bought a smaller home where he and his second love, his dog Konan lived until he passed. Gary's first love was Sharon, followed by his dog Konan, horses, family, rodeo, kids, black berry brandy, coffee and black forest cake.  Gary was a proud member and supporter of the Painters Brothers American Legion Post 102 in Geraldine. Gary was a member of Painter Brothers American Legion Post 102 in Geraldine. He served as a member of the Cowboy Color Guard during funerals and parades. His position was the man in black carrying the POW/MIA flag on horseback or on the ground. Gary is survived by his sister Rita Thielmann (Ed Berry) along with his niece Dawn Satterlee and her daughter Taylor Meyer; his nephew Brian Thielmann, his son Dylan Thielmann; his nephew Terry (Tammy) Thielmann, their children Taryn and Trevyn their grandkids, Ellie and Walker. Gary is also survived by his aunt and uncle, several cousins, and his very special Montana friends, families and community of which are too many to list.  Gary will be remembered for being a kind person who would, and did help anyone that needed help.  He will be missed by many, especially his companion Konan.   There will be a Celebration of Life for Gary July 24th at 3pm at the Vet's Memorial Hall in Geraldine.