Obituary of Gary J. San Julian

Gary J. San Julian, of State College, PA, passed away on February 5, 2026 surrounded by his family. He was born October 29, 1947, in Clarksburg, WV, the son of the late Toni and Manuel San Julian. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Nancy Moore San Julian. Gary proudly served as a Captain in the United States Army. He then earned his undergraduate degree from West Virginia University, a master’s degree from Clemson University, and a PhD in Wildlife Biology from Colorado State University. His academic teaching career began at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, CA, and later included teaching at NC State University. He went on to serve as Vice President of Research and Education at the National Wildlife Federation. Missing the classroom and the opportunity to work directly with students, Gary later moved to State College, PA, where he spent 16 years as a Professor of Wildlife and Natural Resources in the Forestry Department at Penn State University. He was honored with Professor Emeritus status and won numerous conservation and teaching awards. An avid outdoorsman, Gary enjoyed fishing and hunting and especially treasured time spent outdoors with his son, passing along his love of nature. He adored his grandchildren and loved them immensely. In addition to his wife, Gary is survived by his brother Robert and sister-in-law Cathy; his son Erik and daughter-in-law Rachel; and his grandchildren, Mariella and Anton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the wildlife conservation charity of your choice in Gary’s memory. The family has entrusted the arrangements to Ford Funeral Home, Allen Chapel, 215 East Main Street, Bridgeport, WV. Family and friends are invited to visit on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 from 9:30 am until 11 am at the All Saints Catholic Church, 317 East Main Street, Bridgeport, WV. The Catholic Funeral Liturgy will be held at 11AM with Rev. Father Walter Jagela as Celebrant. Interment will follow at the Bridgeport Cemetery in Bridgeport, WV. Online condolences may be made to www.fordfuneralhomes.com.