" Born on January 19, 1958, in Virginia, he was the youngest son of six children of Hugh and Ruth Switzer. Gary had fond memories of visiting family every summer and vacationing on Long Island, NY. Gary graduated from Washington Lee High School and went on to earn many certificates on Fire Safety and Security, working his way up to Director of Safety and Emergency Management for Inova Fairfax Hospital.
Gary dedicated his life's work to maintaining the safety and security for patients, visitors, and staff at Inova Fairfax Hospital over the past 40 years. He was instrumental in expanding the hospital from its once small building to the large campus that now seamlessly provides care to our community.
Gary enjoyed spending his vacations with his children in Ocean City, MD. Every summer, and with easy convincing, he would travel to get blue crabs, fish on the bay, and visit Assateague Island. He often searched for sailboats to add to his collection at home, never coming back from a trip without a new boat.
Gary loved spending time with his children and his grandson. When his kids were young, he indulged in Nerf wars, bike rides (and races), and many other adventures that they talked him into. His love for spending time with his family continued as his kids grew up and he always lived life to the fullest. He has been the foundation of our family and he will be missed dearly. We love you Dad/Grandpa
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Gary's name to the Inova Health Foundation or the American Diabetes Association "
| Full name | City | State | Relation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hugh E. Switzer (Deceased) | Arlington | Virginia | Father |
| Ruth I. Switzer (Deceased) | Arlington | Virginia | Mother |
| Johnny H. Switzer | Culpeper | Virginia | Son |
| Tyler A. Switzer | Orlando | Florida | Son |
| Charles F. Trewartha | Remington | Virginia | Son-in-law |
| Priscilla R. Trewartha | Remington | Virginia | Daughter |
| Lucy A. Switzer | Culpeper | Virginia | Daughter-in-law |
| Chandler H. Switzer | Culpeper | Virginia | Grandson |
Gary will be remembered to me as a kind soul with a quiet yet profound sense of humor. Will miss him much! My sincere condolences.
- Deb Geer
Gary was my neighbor for 6 years. He was always so kind and will be remembered as a great man. Condolences to the family. I know he will be greatly missed.
- Paula Saihati
We love you Gary! Rest in peace and complete healing little brother. You worked so hard, and cared for so many. Looking forward to a sweet reunion some day. ❤
- Lenore Odom and family
Our Switzer family is extremely close and my Uncle Gary was an integral part of our family. I have fond memories of spending time with him and my cousins at Grandpa Switzer's house. He was one of the hardest working people I had the honor of knowing. Our loss, as devestating as it is, is Heaven's gain. Uncle Gary is in Jesus' warm embrace now and I look forward to our reunion in Heaven. We love you Uncle Gary.
- David Odom
My thoughts and prayers for the family.
- Jean Snyder
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Part of his Inova family.
- Marisa Little
I had the privilege to have met and worked with Gary for the past 15 years. He was my boss whom l always looked up to. He was a caring human being who deserved the best. My heart and prayers go out to his daughter Priscilla and his sons Johnny and Tyler. Gary, I am so grateful for all you did for me and my family and l will always remember you.
- Manny Campos
Gary was an amazing colleague. He will be missed dearly.
- Melissa Martin
There are no words to express the deep sorrow IFMC feels with the loss of Gary. Gary was comfortable with staff, leaders , executives and providers...because we all knew he was there to protect our patients and the whole team. I always relaxed when an incident would happen at the hospital and Gary was there(which by the way was every event!)...my deepest sympathy to the whole family-we got to hear stories about all of you-he was so proud of you!
- Tricia Schmehl
I was deeply saddened when I heard about Gary’s passing from my former coworkers. My condolences to his family. I offer my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May Gary Rest In Peace.
- Jana Wippel
"Those we love don't go away, They walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear. " My heart aches at Gary's passing. It is a loss for his family, friends and community. I know I am a better person for meeting Gary and learning by his example. My thoughts and Prayers are with Gary and his family.
- Frank Hauf
Gary was incredibly beloved at Inova. He will be deeply missed.
- Sage Bolte
So enjoyed Gary at Inova Fairfax, anytime I had an issue, Gary would be an understatedly receptive one to help. After a few decades go by, you feel like a family. I recall a time when we having a meeting by phone and (thinking he was on mute) got to overhear him reserving a bucket of crabs for his holiday picnic. Just a terrific, wonderful human with a sweet smile- please know that he was appreciated and will be missed by many of his Fairfax clan.
- Gill Abernathy
My heart is heavy, as I just learned of Gary's passing. I thought of Gary not only as a boss but as a friend and mentor. There is no doubt he will be missed. Until we meet again my friend. You were the best.
- Jimmy Watters
Gary always nodded a hello, no matter how busy he was. His role was critical in keeping Inova Team
Members and the public safe While
In our hospital. We will forever be grateful.
- Dr. Mary Schmidt
My deepest condolences to the Switzer family. He will be missed terribly. Gary was a wonderful, caring person with whom I had the privilege of working with for the past 17 years. I found him to be a dedicated and kind leader; always ready with a solution. He was so very proud of his kids. You could hear the joy in his voice when he spoke of them. Gary had a profound and quiet dignity. From our first meeting, he had an affect on my life and I feel that I am a better person for having known him.
- Rebecca Jew