Gary Allen Hlivko, 62, died Wednesday, January 7, 2009. Originally from New York, Gary spent time in both Michigan and Texas before settling in the sunshine state. A former member of the US Air Force, Gary, also a car enthusiast, worked for various car manufacturers including Mazda and General Motors. Though it was perhaps the stars and the study of astronomy that Gary felt most passionate about. During his lifetime he was an avid member of the Houston Stargazers.
The contributions made in his name to the Space & Aeronautics Internship Program will be used to compensate Florida undergraduates for the internships they complete at high-tech companies across the state. The influence of this program should not be underestimated. These internships act as a stepping stone for students from their studies to their careers. The skills and experiences they garner through these opportunities become invaluable to them while they are looking for their first job after college.
Once again, all of us here at FSGC have been taken aback by Gary’s generosity. We are truly humbled by the kindness of Gary and his family.