Gary "Big Mac" McMurtrey passed away on June 21, 2019, after weeks of declining health. For many years, Big Mac ran the Alaska Smokejumper Welfare Fund with an iron fist and a heart of gold. Many are the smokejumpers that ended up on the short end of a deal with Big Mac. His motto in running the welfare fund was "Caveat Emptor," Let the Buyer Beware.

Behind the irascible, gruff exterior was a man of kindness and generosity, a loyal friend, and a hardworking smokejumper. Gary jumped at McCall in 1973, Alaska 1974-78 and 1980-84.