Gary T. Wassmer, age 50, of Cooper Twp., Montour Co., died Sunday, April 24, at his home following a brief illness. He was a resident of Cooper Twp. since 2002. Born November 14, 1960 in Honesdale, PA he was a son of the late Gail A. (Gustin) Wassmer and Lester A. Wassmer of Binghamton NY.
After graduating from the Chenango Valley High School in 1978, Gary earned a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's Degree at the State University of New York, Binghamton and PhD from the University of Delaware. Since 2000 he has been an Associate Professor at Bloomsburg University in the Biology Department.
Dr. Wassmer was involved with NASA research to send insects into outer space. In 2009, through a Fulbright Fellowship, he taught in Uganda for 5 months. He greatly enjoyed teaching, research and golfing.
Surviving in addition to his father is his beloved wife of 19 years, Catherine Chayko, a daughter: Marianna Catherine Wassmer and a son: Joseph Gustin Wassmer. He is also survived by a sister: Elaine Aldrich and her husband, James, of Olney MD and a brother: Steven D. Wassmer of Binghamton.
Friends will be received on Saturday, April 30, at St. Columba Catholic Church, Third & Iron Sts. Bloomsburg from 10 am until the time of Memorial Services at 11:00 am with Rev. Joseph Fennessey officiating. Private interment will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family. The Allen Funeral Home, 745 Market at Eighth St., Bloomsburg is assisting the Wassmer and Chayko families. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Columba African Tuition Fund, 342 Iron St. Bloomsburg.