Dresden, Maine — Gary Alan Getchell, 89, passed away peacefully at his home on November 3, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 20, 1935, he was the son of the late Ray H. and Ruth E. Getchell of Dresden ME.
Gary devoted his life to education, mentorship, and community. His teaching career began in 1957 and spanned schools in Raynham, Lynn, Foxborough, and Yarmouth, MA. From 1974 to 1982, he served as Principal of Mattacheese Middle School in Yarmouth, later teaching mathematics at Cape Cod Community College until his retirement in 2002. Though he left the classroom, Gary never stopped teaching, continuing to guide and inspire others throughout his life.
He lived for 40 years on Cape Cod and deeply cherished the friends and colleagues he made during that time. He was a member of the Masonic Fraternity and Past Master of Howard Lodge AF&AM in South Yarmouth and Pilgrim Lodge AF&AM in Harwich, MA.
Known for his intelligence, humor, and deep understanding of people, Gary lived with a spirit of curiosity and determination. He loved proving that aging need not slow one's enthusiasm for life—always dreaming, building, and learning.
In retirement, Gary and his wife, Judy, settled in Dresden, ME, in his ancestral home built in 1761. He spent his days restoring the house, welcoming friends, and building community on "Getchell Hill." He especially cherished time with family and friends—the Getchell Gang—enjoying Sunday bocce and barbecues, winter gatherings, Patriots games, and pool games with Mike and Vince.
Gary is survived by his wife of 63 1/2 years, Judy Gilmore Getchell; children Wendy Getchell-Lacey (Tom) of Salisbury, MA; Janine Bouchard (Chris) of Madison, NH; and Glenn Getchell (Angie) of Rome, GA. He is also survived by grandchildren Emily, Daniel, Samantha, Wil, and Ellie, and great-grandchild Luca. He was predeceased by his parents and daughter-in-law, Laura W. Getchell.
Memorial donations may be made to the Dresden Richmond United Methodist Church 121 Pleasant Street Richmond ME 04357, or to the Richmond Area Food Pantry 15 Spruce Street Richmond ME 04357. A celebration of Gary's life will be announced at a later date.