Gary Allen Chandler

SMETHPORT, Pa. — Gary Allen Chandler, 76, of Smethport, passed away Sunday (April 5, 2026) at his home in Laurel, Del., where he has resided for the last 17 years.

Gary was born Oct. 30, 1949, in Olean, N.Y., son of the late Daryl “Mike” Chandler and Mary Chandler.

Gary was a 1967 graduate of Port Allegany High School. Gary enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving from 1969 to 1975. During his service, he was stationed at Bergstrom AFB in Austin, Texas and served in Iran, attaining the rank of sergeant.

He continued working as a jet aircraft mechanic as a civilian for Bell Helicopter in Tehran, Iran before returning to the United States. Gary would continue to excel with his mechanical skills while working alongside his father at Chandler’s Garage in Port Allegany. In later years he went to work for Pittsburgh Corning, where he retired in 2008.

After retirement, Gary relocated to Laurel with his wife, Carole, so they could be near his son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren.

Gary was known for spending countless hours working in the garage, tinkering on vehicles for friends and family alike. He was proud of his service time and maintained his membership at the American Legion and would visit every time he returned home. He will be remembered for his sense of humor and silly phrases that his grandchildren grew to cherish.

Gary is survived by his son, Eric Chandler and his wife, Heather Chandler, of Sharptown, Md.; four grandchildren, Zachary, Makenzi, Brianna and Cameron;  four great-grandchildren, Kensleigh, Saylor, Morrigan and Addisyn; a sister, Elaine Frieberg of Media; a special niece and Goddaughter, Rebecca Angley; nephew, Justin Frieberg; and a special friend who was like a son, Gene Moore.

In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by his wife, Carole.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, May 1, 2026, at the American Legion, Frank Burt Post 258.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gary’s memory can be made to the American Legion, Frank Burt Post 258, 4743 Rt. 155, Port Allegany, PA 16743.

Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar, Del.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.