Gary Lee Cosens

Gary Lee Cosens, 84, of Bay City, passed into glory November 23 at Henry Ford Allegiance Hospital in Jackson, Michigan.  He was born on November 12, 1936 in Akron, Michigan, the son of Leon and Aerial (Fox) Cosens.  He attended Akron High School, graduating in 1955 as class Valedictorian.  He was active in football, baseball, basketball and track.  He joined the U.S. Navy Reserve and attended The University of Michigan where he received both a degree in aeronautical engineering and his Master's degree in the same year, 1960.  As a doctoral student he designed a rotating detonation engine that greatly increased rocket thrust, drawing the attention and approval of NASA.

In addition to his work at The University of Michigan, he was also employed by McDonnell-Douglas Aerospace Engineering and taught advanced mathematics at Davenport University.  As owner of Perkins Manufacturing of Bay City, he was also a local businessman, specializing in custom constructed windows and doors.  An example of his work can be viewed at the Tromley House in Bay City, where he recreated all its windows to the exacting specifications of their original historical design.

Gary met his future wife, Nellie Fern Marker, while they were members of their local church youth group.  They were married on June 14, 1958, and she preceded him in death last April. He is survived by his children, Tracey Beth Hunter (Gerald) and Eric Cosens (Rachel), as well as grandchildren Angelo, Anthony, Natalie, Ariel, Alyssa, Liberty, Nathaniel, Elizabeth and Grace, and great grandchild, Zoe. Gary is also survived by his younger brother, Norman Cosens (Janice), of Akron.

Gary enjoyed coaching softball, involvement with the Gideons International, with his son and grandsons in the Boy Scouts, and cultivating a sizable organic garden.  He is remembered for his brilliant mind and total commitment to his family.  He was a hard-working man of strong faith in Jesus Christ, having been a lifelong United Methodist, as well as a person of impeccable character and honesty. Interment will be Friday, November 27, at 11 a.m. at Wisner Township Cemetery.

A memorial service for Gary and Nellie will be held on July 31, 2021 at 1pm at the Wisner United Methodist Church. All relatives and friends are cordially asked to attend in the celebration of their lives. A fellowship meal at the church will be provided immediately following the service.