Gary Gene Hines

Gary Gene Hines, born on December 7, 1946, in Dayton, Ohio, passed away on March 7, 2026, in Olathe, Kansas.

Gary graduated from Russell High School in Kansas in 1964, where he served as Student Council President and sang in the chorus. He took special pride in helping lead the Russell basketball team to a state championship during his junior year, a story he loved to recount throughout his life.

A proud veteran, Gary enlisted in the U.S. Army at age 19 and served in Korea during the Vietnam War era. While stationed there, he discovered fastpitch softball, a sport he continued to play and excel in upon returning to Kansas. Known affectionately as “Sidd,” he became a standout player in the Topeka Men’s League before transitioning into coaching. As a dedicated women’s softball pitching coach, he guided athletes at Baker University, the University of Kansas, Iowa State, and Wingate University in North Carolina, where he retired. His ability to cultivate talent and inspire young players left a lasting impact on many.

In addition to coaching, Gary worked for Lawrence Parks and Recreation, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Facilities Management from Pacific University. Colleagues knew him as “Dirt Man” for his meticulous care of the ball fields. He also volunteered his time supporting the Youth Football League in Lawrence. Gary found joy in watching sports, fishing, golfing, and reading mystery novels—as long as the endings held some surprise. He was often the center of laughter at family barbecues playing washers and could be coaxed into spirited games of Apples to Apples during holiday gatherings.

Gary is survived by his beloved children, Kim (Duke) Gasiorowski and Matt Hines, and his cherished grandchildren, Lauren, Katie, and Eli. His family remained the heart of his life, and he took great delight in attending their basketball and football games, track meets, graduations, and weddings. He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald D. and Thelma Hines, his sister Sandra, and his dear granddaughter Ashley Gasiorowski, whose memory will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Gary will be remembered for his devotion to family, his passion for coaching, and his steadfast pride in his service to his country.