Gary Bremer of Lompoc passed away on New Year's Day 2022.  He will be greatly missed by his family and by many who crossed paths with him at the local NAPA Auto Parts store that he owned and operated for 42 years.

Gary was born on July 18th, 1939 in New Orleans.  His father was a cattleman, and Gary was raised a country boy.  He shared fond childhood memories of riding horses and herding cattle. After high school, Gary served in the Louisiana National Guard.  In 1957 his long career in auto parts began when he went to work stocking shelves at the NAPA Auto Parts distribution center in New Orleans.  His integrity, affability, and relentless work ethic helped afford him greater responsibilities and new opportunities with the company.

In 1959 Gary married the love of his life, Joan Jacob.  Joan was by his side as his career took him to Mobile, Portland, Los Angeles, and finally Denver.  Wanting to move back to California and run their own NAPA store, in 1979 Gary and Joan decided to purchase the NAPA store in Lompoc.  They successfully ran that store right up until Gary's untimely death.

Most of all, Gary loved his family.  His entire family worked at the store at one point or another, and his oldest son, Gary Jr., as well as his wife Joan continue to work there.  In addition to his wife Joan and two sons, Gary Jr. and David, he is survived by two grandsons, Conrad and Walter Bremer.

Gary loved being in the auto parts business.  But more than anything, he loved the people he met along the way.  He touched many people in his time here, helping to launch the businesses and careers of many former employees and others he encountered.  He was a large man, but a gentle giant.  His southern drawl was warm and endearing, and it reflected a giant heart.  Gary had a great run.

A celebration of life is pending.