Gary George Slopey

Gary G. Slopey, of Pompano Beach, FL, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. He was born on July 18, 1946, in Alexandria, VA, to Harold M. and Dorothy J. Sloppy. He was a graduate of the University of Florida and a veteran of the United States Air Force. Gary was one of the founding partners of Derose and Slopey Consulting Engineers and, later, owner of Slopey Engineering.

He is survived by his partner Carol Cochran, daughters Erin C. Slopey and Catie M. Slopey, and by his beloved granddaughter, Nora. He also leaves behind his brother Lee J. Sloppy and wife, Amanda, sister Kay S. Crouch and husband Patrick, nephew Carl L. Slopey and wife Dawn Church, as well as two great-nieces, Samantha and Elizabeth.

Gary took his work seriously, as one would hope, but he also believed in the adage, “work hard, play hard.” He was always ready for an adventure, large or small, from road trips to skydiving to a simple day spent at the beach or by a river. Gary spent many weekends in his woodworking shop or watching football or NASCAR races. He often did this in the company of a series of English Bulldogs with whom he was proud to have won at least one Dog and Owner Look-Alike Contest. But mostly he enjoyed spending his time with friends, cultivated over a lifetime, for whom he was the “First Call” made when help was needed. He enjoyed having a project, expanding his knowledge and skills, but mostly, helping out whenever possible. No matter what Gary was doing, there was always music playing in the background. Every day, every night, every trip had a soundtrack containing a wide range of styles. He was especially fond of live music and would travel great distances to hear favorite artists or to attend festivals. In the last few years, he embraced his role as Grandpa, attending, and enjoying, dance classes, school visits, and Nora’s car karaoke renditions of the greatest hits of Melanie Martinez.

Memorial services and interment will take place on May 9 at the South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth. In lieu of flowers, donations in Gary’s memory may be made to Friends of WLRN (of which he was a long-time listener and supporter) or to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.