THORNTON ---- Gary Lee Piehn, of Thornton, NH, beloved husband of Julia “Julie” Ann (Eastman) Piehn, passed away on Monday, June 30, 2025. He was 77 years old.
The son of Orville and Elva Piehn, Gary was born and grew up in Morris, IL, graduating from Morris High School in 1966. He went on to attend Northern Illinois University. He served as Vice President of Operations at First National Bank of Freeport for many years. In 2001, Gary and his wife Julie followed their entrepreneurial spirit and moved to New Hampshire to begin a new chapter together as owners and operators of Gilcrest Cottages in Thornton. For 15 years, they welcomed thousands of guests, many of whom became lifelong friends and extended family.
Alongside the cottages, Gary ran Majik Touch Framing from the motel store, creating handmade frames and signs that now hang in homes across the country. After selling the motel in 2016, Gary and Julie remained in the beautiful home he built by hand for her – a lasting symbol of his craftsmanship and devotion to the love of his life. In retirement, Gary continued his framing business and also began selling his custom designed and built furniture. His meticulously crafted pieces are treasured in homes throughout New England and beyond.
Gary was a passionate outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, and hiking in his younger years. He passed his love of the outdoors on to his children, especially his sons, with whom he shared many adventures. But above all, Gary was a devoted friend and husband who lived a life rich with purpose and love. His relationship with Julie was rooted in deep connection and unwavering devotion. He embraced every moment with her, never hesitating to join her on any adventure, and stood steadfastly by her side through all of life’s seasons. Their love was genuine, enduring, and truly inspiring to all who knew them.
Gary is survived by his wife of 34 years, Julia (Julie) Ann Piehn; his children Jack Piehn of Freeport, IL; Scott (Misty) Piehn of Freeport, IL; Karin (Jack) Duchow of Columbus, IN; Jennifer (Phillip) Platt of Long Beach, MS; and Nicole (Bett) Goldberg of Port Washington, NY. He is also survived by nine grandchildren; Kirsten (John) Holsinger, Morgan (Issac) Catalani, Jackson Duchow, Emelia Duchow, Kyla Taylor, Alyson Shook, Molly Shook, Juliet Goldberg, and Noah Goldberg; and by his great-granddaughters Lucille and Magnolia Holsinger. He is also remembered fondly by his sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nine nieces and nephews, and many great friends.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents and his grandson, Brennan Piehn.
He will be deeply missed by all who had the joy of knowing him – his quiet strength, generous heart, dry wit, and deep devotion to family and craft will never be forgotten.
A small private family gathering was held in honor of his wishes.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Gary’s memory by spending time in the great outdoors, building something with your hands, or simply cherishing time with the ones you love.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, NH, 03246, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, please visit wilkinsonbeane.com.