Gary Junod

Gary was born on July 6, 1937 in Syracuse, NY to Mr. & Mrs. Paul Richard Junod. Gary grew up in Syracuse with his family and enlisted into the United States Army at the young age of 18 where he dedicated 4 years to his Country.

On February 16, 1978 Gary was married to wife surviving Gail, and made a home in Syracuse . Gary was employed by The General Motors Corporation in Syracuse, NY where he retired after 27 years with the company. In 1996 Gary, wife Gail, and daughter Mary moved to Statesville, N.C.

Gary joined the Cool Springs Vol. Fire Department on January 12, 2000 as a member of the Traffic/Support Division. Gary's duties consisted of traffic control, firefighter support and providing rehabilitation on the incident scene. Gary took his job very serious; members could always count on Gary to respond when needed.

Gary quickly adopted the nickname "Yank" around the firehouse because he was from the "North".  Members would say "we could always expect a good laugh when Yank was around". Gary had a great sense of humor and you could count on him to do his share of kidding when he was with the guys.

Firefighter Gary Junod passed away Friday, October 10, 2003 at Baptist Hospital in Winston Salem, North Carolina. Gary was admitted on August 8, 2003 for speculated cardiac complications. Gary underwent surgery in attempt to correct his cardiac condition and despite a long battle, Gary succumbed to his illness on October 10th.

Members from the Cool Springs Volunteer Fire Department served as the Honor Guard during his visitation.  Members were also pallbearers at the request of the family. Engine 201 led the escort to burial site where firefighters presented an American Flag and Gary's helmet to the family. A bagpiper was present to play Amazing Grace and the bell was rung to signify the firefighter's task was complete. At the conclusion of the service, the firefighter's pagers gave a solemn announcement, "Attention all units and stations, Cool Springs Unit 283 has answered his final alarm and is now returning home, God Bless you Gary Junod". 

The Junod Family and the Cool Springs Volunteer Fire Department wish to express our sincere thanks for all the thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Thank you Gary for you service to the community.  You will truly be missed!