WINSLOW — Gary G. Searles, 73, of Winslow, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, May 30, at his home. He was the husband of Jean S. (Wadlin) Searles.

Gary was born in Lewiston, Feb. 9, 1939, a son of the late Clyde and Rachel (Perron) Searles. He grew up in Auburn and graduated from Edward Little High School.

He served is country in the U.S. Army after high school.

Gary truly enjoyed and was very proud of his work as an aeronautical engineer. He worked on the first space shuttle in the 1980s and also on the last one in the mid 2000s.

He was a member of the Kora Shrine and frequented the lodge in Lewiston. He was also a longtime drummer, playing with some of the most talented musicians in the area. Gary also loved both the water and the air, and enjoyed any activity that involved either, including his work.

Besides his wife Jean, he is survived by his former wife, Faye Neal, of Wales; two daughters, Susan Hatch and her husband, John, of Litchfield and Dorie Raschella and her husband, Johnny, of West Virginia; two sons, Ted Searles and his wife, Christine, of Litchfield and David Searles of Saco; 11 grandchildren; a great-grandchild; a brother, Wayne Searles of Lewiston; best friends, Andy and Judy Reirdon of Lisbon Falls; and many loving in-laws, nieces and nephews.

Please visit www.advantageportland.com to sign Gary’s guest book.