John Gary Nylander

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His legacy lives on in those he inspired, taught, and embraced along the way.

John Gary Nylander ("Gary") passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 21, 2026 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, surrounded by family and friends. He was 85 years old.

Born on December 27, 1940, in Monterey Park, California, John Gary Nylander’s life was a remarkable tapestry woven through threads of innovation, adventure, and friendship. Gary’s journey was marked by a magnetic charm and effortless warmth that drew people to him—traits that would become the hallmark of his relationships, his career, and his many passions.

Gary devoted 31 years of his professional life to IBM, where his dedication and expertise left a lasting impact. His time at IBM was marked not only by technical accomplishment but by mentorship and a willingness to share wisdom generously with his colleagues. As a senior consultant, he helped shape the trajectory of important projects, earning respect and admiration throughout the company. Upon retirement, Gary embraced new horizons, moving to St. Michaels, Maryland, where he joyfully opened and operated a bed and breakfast, welcoming guests into a home filled with laughter, stories, and the warmth of genuine hospitality.

A true enthusiast at heart, Gary found joy in pursuits that reflected both his adventurous spirit and deep community involvement. His love of racing model boats led him to become an integral member of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum Model Boat Guild in St. Michaels. Known for his dedication, he served as commodore and penned the much-anticipated weekly racing report in the Star Democrat, chronicling the excitement of the local sailboat racing scene. Whether launching boats on Chesapeake waters or offering encouragement and camaraderie to fellow sailors, Gary’s presence was a source of connection and joy.

His passion for racing spanned from miniature yachts to roaring engines. In California, Gary relished carving up the Pismo Beach Dunes in his sand car. He was an active and esteemed member of the Porsche Owners Club (POC) in Southern California, even serving as President, and dedicated time to instructing aspiring drivers in the POC and the PCA/GGR in Northern California.

Perhaps most notably, Gary’s racing tenacity extended to the professional circuit, where over six years he competed in IMSA events behind the wheel of a Porsche. His proudest racing moment came in 1977 when he finished third in class at the legendary 12 Hours of Sebring—an accomplishment that illuminated his blend of skill, focus, and indomitable enthusiasm. Later, in St. Michaels, he became a top competitor in sailboat and log canoe races for more than two decades, adding yet another chapter of achievement to a life defined by friendly competition and sportsmanship.

At Gary’s core was a deep and enduring love for community. He thrived in social settings, whether among close friends or newfound acquaintances, always eager to share knowledge about racing or simply to enjoy a shared story. His generosity of spirit reached far beyond his hobbies; he was the neighbor you could count on, a mentor to many, and a friend who brightened every gathering with sincerity and humor.

Gary is survived by his loving daughters, Ann Karole Goldie and Ann Kristin Ruiter, and three grandchildren, Jason, Hunter and Violet, whose lives have been forever enriched by their father’s wisdom, zest for living, and unwavering support.

As those who knew Gary gather to remember him, they will recall a life well-lived—one marked by adventure, compassion, and boundless curiosity. His legacy lives on in those he inspired, taught, and embraced along the way.

Details regarding services to honor and celebrate Gary’s life will follow, as his family and friends come together to remember all that he so joyfully shared with the world.