Gary William Taintor, 67, of Ashland, and former longtime resident of Natick, passed away Sat., Sept. 21 st .  Born in Gardner, he was the son of the late Robert and Doris (Quint) Taintor and husband of 45 years to Mary (Gill) Taintor.  Gary established, owned and operated Metrowest Small Engine Repair in Natick until his retirement in 2018.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons, Eric T. Taintor and his wife Kelly Ann of Holliston, and Geoffrey W. Taintor and his wife Jill of Burlington, two grandchildren, Liam and Molly, and one brother, Barry Taintor and his wife Valerie of Cromwell, CT and Weston, FL . He is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and nephews, and loving friends.

Gary began his early li fe in Gardner, MA, later moving to Wellesley where he spent most of his childhood until his sophomore year in high school, when he moved to Needham, MA. He attended Newman Preparatory High School in Boston and graduated from Wentworth Institute of Technology.

He owned several businesses during his lifetime, including Taintor Landscaping and Metrowest Small Engine Repair, both located in Natic k . From an early age, Gary loved anything mechanical. He tinkered with cars, go carts, garden equipment, and power tools; he could resurrect even the most stubborn piece of equipment. He also loved the challenge of house renovations. Among his hobbies were carpentry, gardening and rooting for the Patriots.

Gary was a wonderfully supportive father who adored his two children. He tirelessly attended football and hockey practices and games, track meets and soccer. He was present at music concerts and gigs, encouraging his oldest son's musical talents. He would proudly discuss his younger son's athletic abilities to all who would listen. Gary marveled at the magic of his two grandch ildren. He deeply loved his wife, and was a devoted partner from the time they met as teenagers.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, Oct. 3 rd at 9:00am in St. Cecilia's Parish, 54 Esty St. Ashland, MA.  There are no calling hours.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Lung Assoc., 1661 Worcester Rd., Suite 301, Framingham, MA 01701.