Gary was born to Hulburd W. Meacham and Margaret A. (Batholow) Meacham. He grew up in various towns on the Camas Prairie graduating from Highland High School in Craigmont in 1957.

Gary received his degree in art from the University of Oregon in 1962. He settled in Silverton after college. Eventually he was hired by the state of Oregon working in the maintenance department for the Department of Education. He held this position till retirement at age 58 and a half.

In 2000 Gary, while on one of many trips to South America, met the lovely woman who would become his wife. Gladys Ceclia Poblete, Cecy. Together they had many travels and had a large circle of friends. Gary said she made his life complete.

Proceeding Gary in death were his parents, a brother, Darrell and nephew William.
Surviving him are his wife, Cecy, stepchildren Rodrigo Vicencio and family, Felipe Vicencio and family both of Chile, South America, sisters, June Ralicki, Hamburg, NY, Norma Bumbaugh, Lewiston ID, nieces, nephew and great nieces and nephews.

There will be a gathering to celebrate Gary's life on November 1, 2025, at the Silverton Senior Center between 1pm and 4pm.