Gary Hays McKean

Gary Hays McKean of Visalia went to be with the Lord on November 21, 2025, at the age of 88, just shy of his 89th birthday. Gary was born to Archie and Nona McKean on November 27,1936 in Fresno, Ca. He was preceded in death by his one sister, Verlie. Dad attended Washington Union High School and played football and ran track. His mom and stepfather would soon move to Georgia, and he followed, hitchhiking across the country with a couple of friends. It was there he met our mom Charlotte Ramona Chandler. They married on December 23,1955 in Acworth Ga. and were marred for 62 years until mom's passing. Dad was a boy from California but soon won over the southerners with his dance moves, charm and humor. Returning to California in 1961, dad worked in Bakersfield for Clark Pest Control before starting his own business, McKean Pest Control in Visalia. Dad was an awesome husband, father, friend and coach. He was extremely proud of his role in helping to bring Pop Warner football to Visalia, taking one team to Hawaii to play in the International Friendship Bowl and coaching many years of Little League. Our parents loved to travel visiting 49 states and dad completing all 50. Retiring early, they moved to the Florida Keys, where they played tennis, snorkeled, fished and enjoyed life. After 11 years, they moved back to California and built a home in Cambria where he drew the plans and built a three-story home with an ocean view. This became the family destination for vacations and holidays. Dad was an excellent body surfer, loved all sports and the activities never ceased, including hunting imaginary snipe with the grandchildren. After, moving home to be closer to family, dad enjoyed watching the grandchildren's sporting and other events. He is survived by his 3 children, Terri Kim Rodriguez (David), Kristi Swearingen (Craig), Monte McKean (Jackie). His grandchildren, Jarod, Andrea, Lynsi, Ryan, Chandler and Cassidi. He was further blessed with 12 great grandchildren. We would like to thank Quail Park Memory Care and all of the special staff and activities directors for their amazing love and support. Celebration of Life will be 12:00 noon at "The Hyde" 3200 West Mineral King Avenue, Visalia, CA 93291, on January 31, 2026. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Gary Hays McKean

November 27, 1936 - November 21, 2025