Gary Paul Brustoski

Gary Paul Brustoski, 64, died at his Ashland residence on Saturday, June 13, 2026.

Gary was born on May 29, 1962, in Akron, Ohio, to Sharon and Anthony Brustoski Sr. He grew up in Cuyahoga Falls, where he attended Woodridge High School (‘80). He was a two-time state qualifier and All-Ohio wrestler in ‘79 and ‘80, and was eventually inducted into the Woodridge Hall of Fame for his achievements. After high school, he began his undergrad in Akron before transferring to the University of Texas at Austin, where he earned his Bachelor’s in Business Administration (‘85).

Gary was a devoted father, brother, son, and friend. He was generous and hardworking; anyone in his orbit knew they always had a dedicated friend and helping hand. He’d drop everything just to drive across the state of Ohio (or entire country, for that matter) to show up when you needed him most. There was nothing better than sharing an inside joke with Gary, his laughter often contagious. He took great joy in hosting, and you could count on him to present a glorious spread of food on any occasion. His daughters grew up thinking that it was commonplace to be served crab legs right at home, multiple times a year. Although he loved a fish fry at the lake, his favorite cooking memories were from every Christmas Eve, making hundreds of pierogies with his family and friends.

He always looked forward to spending time with his “Texas cousins,” with whom he grew close during his years at UT, as well as the New Jersey bunch, making fun memories with them during summers in Sea Isle. He took every opportunity to go on an adventure, from ski trips to scuba dives, motorcycle rallies, many boat days, and lengthy road trips on a whim. He couldn’t sit still, but he could fix just about anything. He was downright crafty, often referred to as “MacGyver” for his more creative solutions. He had a knack for carpentry and entrepreneurship, which carried him through successful careers in construction and home renovation, and in running his duct cleaning business for 25 years.

Gary is survived by his daughters, Jen Jennings (Wyatt) and Emily Hughes (Sarah); his expected granddaughter, Harper Jennings; his mother, Sharon; and his siblings; Anthony Brustoski Jr. (Rhondalynn), Cheryl Shroyer (Patrick), Diane Brustoski, Kim Brustoski (Richard Solwitz), and Amy Brustoski. He was preceded in death by his father, Anthony Brustoski Sr., and his sister, Jo Ann.

All who had the honor of knowing Gary will miss him so dearly.

Calling hours will be held at the Billow FALLS Chapel, 1907 23rd St., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223, on Friday, June 26, 2026, beginning at 2:00 PM. Directly following the calling hours, all are welcome to join a service with family led sharing at 4:00 PM.

Gary believed in protecting our earth and enjoyed Ohio’s lakes and parks all his life. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Ohio Environmental Council (https://theoec.org/donate/).

Services in care of the Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, Falls Memorial Chapel.