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, KS, in 1964, where he was Student Council President and a member of the chorus. He loved to tell the story of how he helped lead the Russell basketball team to a state championship in his Junior Year in high school.

A proud veteran, Gary enlisted in the U.S. Army at age 19. He was stationed in Korea during the Vietnam War Era. Gary learned fastpitch softball while in Korea and continued playing upon his return.

Also known as “Sidd,” Gary became a renowned fastpitch softball player in the Topeka Men’s League. Gary then became a dedicated women’s softball pitching coach at Baker, the University of Kansas, Iowa State, and Wingate, North Carolina, where he then retired. He cultivated talent and inspired many young athletes throughout his career.

Besides coaching, Gary worked at Lawrence Parks and Rec, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Facilities Management from Pacific University. He was known as “Dirt Man,” for his dedicated work in caring for the ball fields in Lawrence. While in Lawrence, he also volunteered his time supporting the Youth Football League.

Gary enjoyed watching sporting events as well as fishing, golfing, and reading a good mystery novel, as long as the ending wasn’t too predictable. He could be found playing a game of washers at family barbecues and talked into a competitive game of Apples to Apples at 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 was always central to his life, providing joy and love that defined his days. Gary enjoyed attending many of his grandchildren’s events, such as basketball and football games, track meets, graduations, and even a wedding.

He is 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 Gene Hines will be remembered for his devotion to family, coaching, and country. He was proud to be a veteran and an American.

No services will be held at his request.

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