Gary Raymond Furlow

Furlow, Gary Raymond 66 Jan. 29, 1946 Aug. 17, 2012 "A Life Well Lived… A Man Well Loved" After a courageous battle with cancer Gary passed away on Aug. 17, 2012 surrounded by his loving wife of 47 years and his children. Gary grew up in Portland and graduated from Central Catholic High School in 1964. He married the love of his life, Sandra, in 1965 and after the birth of their first child they moved to Alaska where they lived for seven years, eventually creating a homestead with their five children. Ultimately, the family moved back to Oregon and Gary worked at what eventually became the Blue Heron Paper Mill for the next 37 years where he was a member of the Safety Council. He had an outstanding work ethic, an exemplary attendance record and a great amount of pride in a job well done. He was known for sincerely caring about his co-workers and they continued to stay in close contact with him until his passing. Gary was a leader, a trusted confidant and an intelligent, thoughtful and compassionate man. He had an insatiable thirst for the adventure of life and all those who came in contact with him have a favorite "Gary story" detailing their escapades with him. Everyone who hears these stories laughs until tears roll down their cheeks. He inspired all by his example and encouraged us to live life to its fullest. Gary had a strong belief in God and always treated others the way he wanted to be treated. He was kind, gentle and compassionate and he was always willing to help others at a moment's notice. He reached out to many through his participation in Street Ministry, Royal Rangers and was a long-time Board member of his church. Gary continued to be an inspiration during his nearly two year battle with cancer by reaching out to others battling cancer and by breaking the painful silence of this disease. Cancer taught him that the only thing that truly mattered in life was the relationships with the people you love and who love you. He embraced this philosophy and shared it with all who loved him, right up until his last breath. Gary was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Cassandra Renee Parker. He is survived by his wife, Sandra; and his sons, James, Douglas and Anthony Furlow and their spouses/partner; his daughters, Christine Parker and Lorraine Furlow; his brothers, Steven and Jeffrey Furlow; his sisters, Deanna Shimshak, Nancy Furlow and Jhanne Jasmine and their spouses; eight grandchildren, two adopted grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. A celebration of life will be held for Gary on Saturday, Sept. 1 at Mulino Grace Community Church, 26900 S. Hwy 213, Mulino at 2 p.m. Please direct inquiries to Doug Furlow (503) 475-6991.