Gary was born in the Bronx, NY and raised in Manhattan. He spent summers in St. Pete Beach with his maternal grandparents. Gary attended St. John Bosco Boarding School in Tampa, Mount St. Michael Academy, Bronx, NY and Long Island University majoring in Business and Journalism.
Gary was raised by his beloved mother, Felicia, and maternal grandfather, Fred Emanuel. Growing up in luxury Manhattan properties managed by his grandfather, afforded Gary life experiences extraordinaire. These experiences made him worldly, sophisticated and smart; he was older in mind and personality well beyond his actual age.
His proudest achievement was completion of the NY School of Interior Design’s program “Decorative Arts of Interior Decoration and Design” in January 1993. Gary completed his design education while working for the NY Transit Authority from 1973 to 1999 where he retired as Director of Surface Facilities and Contracts Management.
Gary started his own business “Lido Interiors” and was an allied member of the American Society of Interior Designers. He created many beautiful living spaces in Manhattan, the New Jersey shore and most recently in the Tampa Bay area. His forte was small spaces where he used his unique perspective and eye for design to create wonderful, intimate rooms with emphasis on art and furniture selection and placement, enhanced with proper lighting.
Gary was known not only for his intelligence but also his wit and charm which shined when he was giving small intimate dinners or cocktail parties. Guests were always treated to outstanding, wonderful meals. He was a master cook and had attended Peter Kumps NY Cooking School in Manhattan, mastering French cooking techniques.
Gary is survived by his loving life partner of 43 years, married 9 years, John Geraghty; his father John Claps; brother John L. Claps; and sister-in-law Patricia Claps.
Donations may be made in memory of Gary towards The American Cancer Society and/or amfAR.
Note from John: We had a wonderful life together and Gary will be missed every minute of every day. There is a gigantic hole in my heart that cannot be mended.