Removing the gear lever is a case of just pulling it up and off ! But, if it was only that easy.
The gator should pull down away from the knob.
Then the lower part of the gear knob has two plastic prongs which grip a recess on the stick.
It does pull up, but needs a firm grip and very sharp pull up.
The trim just levers up, use a plastic trim tool, or you could grip the gator and pull.
The leather is held under the plastic trim by small clips.
These are quite fragile so take it easy.