Six Years Later, Lt. Garry Alting Remains Remembered, Respected And Missed
ASHLAND — Six years have passed since Ashland lost one of its finest, but the memory of Lt. Garry Lee Alting remains strong in the hearts of those who knew him.
Lt. Alting, a 25-year veteran of the Ashland Police Division, passed away suddenly during a medical procedure on June 30, 2020, at OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital. He was 47.
For many in Ashland, Garry was far more than a police officer. He was a friend, a storyteller, a man with an infectious smile, a sharp sense of humor and a deep love for police work. Over the past six years, his name has continued to come up in conversations, always spoken of with admiration, respect and warmth.
I would be amiss if I didn’t mention you today Garry, You have come up in many conversations over the past six years, and you were always spoken of very highly. So my friend, just saying you are not forgotten.
Garry was known throughout the community for his compassion, integrity and dedication to service. During his years with the Ashland Police Division, he served in several roles, including time in the Detective Bureau, where he worked hard to resolve cases both big and small. Those who worked with him remember a man who cared deeply about victims, taking time to explain difficult situations and offer comfort whenever he could.
He was also remembered for the little things that made him unforgettable, his storytelling abilities, his humor, his love of history, and one of his favorite reminders: the second “R” stands for Respect.
Outside of police work, Garry enjoyed taking care of his yard and took great pride in keeping it looking its best. He also enjoyed quiet days at home, sharing popcorn with his dog and watching documentaries about U.S. history, a subject he knew well and loved to talk about.
When Garry was laid to rest, hundreds came to pay their respects. Stories were shared, tears were shed and laughter could be heard as family, friends, officers and community members remembered a man who had touched so many lives.
Six years later, the grief of losing a friend remains, but so does the gratitude for the memories he left behind.
To his wife, Sherry Alting, and to all of Garry’s family, friends and former co-workers, the Ashland community continues to stand with you in thought and prayer.
Lt. Garry Lee Alting served Ashland with honor, compassion and respect. He created thousands of smiles throughout the years, and while he is deeply missed, he has not been forgotten.
