Gary Otto Jech

Gary Otto Jech, 73, passed away on Monday, September 30, 2024, peacefully at his home surrounded by his family. Gary was a devoted husband, father, Papa, and friend to many. He was known for his kindness, integrity, loyalty, and generous heart. Gary was born on November 2,1950 in Turlock, California to Otto and Helen Jech. The family relocated to Northwest Arkansas shortly after and made their home in Springdale. Gary was a 1968 Springdale High School graduate. While at SHS, Gary excelled in athletics. He played defensive end for the Bulldogs and was a three-year letterman in football. In addition, he lettered one season in basketball, track and field, and tennis. Upon graduation, he attended Arkansas Tech in Russellville on a football scholarship. While in Russellville he married his wife, Vicki. Gary and Vicki moved to Springdale while he completed his degree in Business Administration at the University of Arkansas. Always a hard-worker, Gary founded J & J Farms with his dad, Otto. He also purchased Beacon Realty independently. While real estate was one of his passions, he was also interested in the insurance field. In 1993, he acquired Farris Insurance and grew it into a successful, well established insurance agency. Gary loved his employees and treated them like family. He was also blessed to work alongside his son, Jeff, and took pride in teaching him about the insurance industry. Gary loved the community of Springdale and had the honor of serving on several boards including Legacy National Bank and Springdale Chamber of Commerce. In 2011, Gary was inducted into the Springdale Athletic Hall of Fame. This was one of many notable recognitions that he received throughout the years. Some of Gary’s favorite memories were his high school days and playing for the Bulldogs. He went on to serve as a member of the “Chain Gang” for thirty-five years. Gary loved life and enjoyed it to the fullest. He enjoyed cycling, fishing in Alaska, traveling with his wife, going to Branson & Florida for getaways, cheering on the Razorbacks, and spending time with his family and friends. Gary is survived by his wife of 54 years, Vicki; his daughter Jennifer and husband Scott of Springdale; his son Jeff and wife April of Springdale; his daughter Allison and husband Clint of Bentonville; his eight grandchildren Peyton, Riley, McKenna, Emry, Abigail, Frank, Hannah, and Samuel; and his sister Cheryl Smith of Gentry. He was preceded in death by his parents, Otto and Helen Jech. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, support, and prayers during this difficult time. We love and cherish each of you. Life will never be the same without him, but we have peace knowing that he is with our Lord. Visitation will be Monday, October 7, 2024, from 5:00-7:00 pm at Sisco Funeral Chapel in Springdale, Arkansas. A private graveside service will be held on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at Bluff Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Gary’s honor to Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Online condolences may be left at www.siscofuneral.com

Gary Otto Jech

November 2, 1950 - September 30, 2024