By Bobbie Herteman
We would like to honor the memory of a beloved member of our community, Gary Gangnes. His light and positivity were always shining bright and he shared his love of music and real estate with everyone he knew.
Gary began his career in real estate back in 1984 with his wife Jacalyn. Together they started Real Options Realty in 1991. He was an active member of the Santa Cruz Association of Realtors and was on several committees and boards. He was the president in 2000 and truly enjoyed the social aspect of his career for nearly 40 years.
He would often say, “People will forget the details but they will never forget how you made them feel.”
Gary chose to see the good in every person and every situation. He made it his mission to make others feel good and to spread joy.
Gary was known as the stats man. He spent countless hours accumulating the data and generating graphs/market statistics every month – he was quoted by the media often due to his vast knowledge of the market and his understanding of the statistics he generously shared.
He was a very spiritual person! He devoted a lot of time and energy at Unity Temple in Santa Cruz where he joined a Gospel Choir and sang all over the Bay Area with Sista Monica. He loved singing and had previously sung in several barbershop quartets and with the Cabrillo Chorus.
His passion for music was not only singing, he was also a talented concert pianist. If there was a piano around, he played it. He could play classical Chopin and Debussy but also enjoyed show tunes, jazz, and holiday music too!
Gary loved people! He loved his career. He loved music. He loved! He was a wonderful person, mentor, and friend. The world was a better place with Gary in it.