Gary Allen Lillich, 78, of Derby, Kansas, passed away on August 4, 2026, at Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice surrounded by family. 

Born on January 13, 1948, in St. Francis, Kansas, Gary was the youngest of 5 brothers. While in high school, he fell in love with fireworks and started his summer business at the young age of 17. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Kansas State University in 1970, followed by a Master of Science in Food Science in 1974. After graduation, Gary taught math in Miltonvale, KS for two years. He then left teaching to help start a grocery store in his hometown of St. Francis with family. Gary went back for more education in Advanced Mathematics at the University of Northern Colorado, and went on to teach math for 8 years at Mulvane High School in Mulvane, KS. In 1986, he quit teaching to focus on his growing fireworks business, Flash! Fireworks, which he worked until his last days on earth, spending an astounding 60 years in fireworks distribution. 

Gary also helped build community through his work leadership and involvement in hobbies. In 1983, he was a lead founder of the Kansas Fireworks Association, and in 2012, he helped found the Derby Barn Dance Club. He became part of the Pyrotechnics Guild International in 1974 and was one of the first members of the Old Snorts club, reflecting both his long dedication to his work and his place among others who shared that common interest. Outside of work, he enjoyed contra dance, square dance, and retail fireworks sales, pursuits that brought him joy and connected him with others in meaningful ways.

Gary brought a thoughtful and patient spirit to everything he did. He was known as kind and generous, with the sort of steadiness that made others feel comfortable in his presence. He asked questions, listened carefully, and approached life with curiosity and respect. Whether in his professional life or in his personal relationships, he was someone who took time to understand the people and world around him.

Gary is survived by his wife of 43 years Felicia; daughters: Valerie (Jesse) and Jil (Jason); grandchild: Zephyr; and brother: Ronald; along with many nephews and nieces. 

Gary is preceded in death by his parents, Julius and Arvella, and brothers Marlin, Wendell, and Robert. 

A funeral service will be held on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Baker Funeral Home West followed by a Celebration of Life Open House at the Plum Shelter in Sedgwick County Park 1-7pm. Feel free to come & go as you please. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Country Dance & Song Society.www.cdss.org/donate