Gary Laitinen

Gary Laitinen, 60, of New Castle, passed away Friday evening, January 30, 2026, in UPMC Jameson Hospital.

Mr. Laitinen was born March 14, 1965, in New Castle, a son of the late Veikko and Theresa (Margel) Laitinen. A lifelong area resident, he graduated from Lawrence County Career & Technical Center in 1984.

Gary worked at Richardson Cooling Packages for many years.

He was a longtime member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in New Castle, prior to its closure.

A caring and genuine person, Gary would do anything for anybody. He also had a passion for playing the guitar and singing karaoke. Gary was a skilled handyman who was always willing to fix anything and made sure everyone's car was well taken care of.

Gary is survived by his wife, the former Renee Werhnyak; a daughter, Amber Nye, and her husband, Brandon; five sisters, Patricia Brown, Joanne Naylor, Mary Moore, Susanne Russo, and Carol Kordish; a brother, Victor Laitinen; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by a brother, David Laitinen.

Calling hours will be 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesday (02-04-26) in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 111 W. Falls St., New Castle.

A funeral service will immediately follow at 5 p.m., in the funeral home.

Interment will be in Oak Park Cemetery, Neshannock Twp.