Melvin Gary Arthaud, known affectionately as Gary, was born on December 22, 1938, in Vici, Oklahoma, to Myron J. and Grace E. (Miller) Arthaud. He peacefully departed from this life on December 24, 2023, at the age of 85 years and two days. Gary spent his formative years on the family farm, situated nine and a half miles east of Vici, and remained rooted in Dewey County throughout his entire life.  Educated in the Vici Public Schools, Gary graduated with the class of 1959. His passion for agriculture and dedication to his work earned him the esteemed Oklahoma Junior Master Farmer's award. Livestock and ranching became not just a livelihood but a true calling for Gary.  He served as the Dewey County Commissioner for a term and played an active role in the Vici Public School system as a member of the school board when his children were students.  He served in the Army National Guard and was a longtime member of the American Quarter Horse Association. Gary found joy in various pursuits, including attending rodeos, participating in roping events, taking trips to Colorado, and indulging in the peaceful pastime of fishing. His spiritual journey led him to be baptized at the Vici First Christian Church on the same day as his daughter Karin. For the past four decades, Gary made his home just west of Seiling, Oklahoma. In the face of declining health, he moved to the Vici Nursing Home, where he received dedicated care from the staff and hospice. The Arthaud family extends their heartfelt gratitude to these caregivers for their unwavering support.  Gary is preceded in death by his parents, Myron and Grace Arthaud, and his sister, Ann Schwab, along with other cherished loved ones. He is survived by his children: Marilyn Welty and her husband Tom of Leedey, Oklahoma; Karin Tieaskie and her husband Ron of Edmond, Oklahoma; and Kimber Arthaud of Guthrie, Oklahoma. Additionally, he leaves behind two grandsons, Tanner and Weston Bohard of Edmond and his brother Alvin Arthaud, as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends, and his faithful canine companion, Buddy.

Memorial may be made to:

Elk City Animal Shelter

c/o Shaw Funeral Home

PO Box 276

Vici, OK 73859