Gary Walter Kupfer

Gary Walter Kupfer (October 16, 1957 - July 11, 2021) passed away suddenly on Sunday, July 11th, 2021. Gary was a beloved husband, son, brother, uncle, co-worker, and friend, but most importantly, a believer in God and the Lord Jesus Christ. Loving husband to Susanne Baer-Kupfer for 37 years; he was the son of Walter H. and Leni P. Kupfer who both predeceased him in 2015; brother to Ava (Dale) Gutwein; and uncle to numerous nieces and nephews. Gary had a passion for improving the lives of others. His 36 years of service with the Tulare County Department of Human Services gave him many opportunities to make a difference. Starting out his career as an Emergency Response Social Worker, he moved up to his final position of Child Welfare Services (CWS) Manager overseeing the Policy and Program Specialist Unit. Highlights of his career include building a strong relationship with the Tule River Tribe, which resulted in improvements in the relational process between Tulare County and the Tribe; becoming a Tulare County Liaison to the Fresno State Department of Social Work Education where he also served as an adjunct faculty member teaching undergraduate and graduate students social work practice, human behavior and child welfare. Gary also provided years of service to the CWS Adoptions Unit knowing the importance of identification of a forever home for many children; and recently became a lead expert in continuous quality improvement efforts for CWS which focused heavily on improving outcomes for foster children. Beyond Gary's professional contributions, he was also the loving husband of Susanne. Their long marriage was founded on a shared love for God and spending time together. He was Susanne's partner in their small farm where they enjoyed working the land to produce cut flowers and mulberries to sell at Visalia's Farmer's Market. Gary found the "farmer's life" his therapy to unwind and counterbalance his busy work life. His habit was to get up early, start the day taking care of his dogs, and, on days off, prepping and maintaining the fields for Susanne. His support allowed Susanne to succeed in her own right as a floral designer and encouraged her passion and dream to have her own business. This again, demonstrated Gary/s priorities, being a servant to others and helping others to succeed. We are comforted knowing that Gary is safe in the arms of Jesus now. How sweet it was to have known Gary and his example of service, kindness, compassion, and love for others. We look forward to the day when we will be reunited with him in heaven. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 14th, 2021 at 11:00AM at Neighborhood Church, 5505 W. Riggin Ave., Visalia, CA 93291. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Neighborhood Church Building Fund, Neighborhood Church, Visalia.