GARY D. LARSON

Gary Larson passed away March 11, 2011 at his home with his family by his side after a short but valiant battle against Leukemia. Gary was born November 12, 1945 to Bernice and George Larson in Sedro Woolley.

He attended Mount Vernon High School graduating with the class of 1965.

Gary married his high school sweetheart Sandi Dellinger on September 1, 1967.

Gary began his mechanical career when he started working at Carlson Cadillac in 1969 as an apprentice mechanic. Gary always had a passion for cars. In the early 70's Gary and his brother Gerald built their 1956 Chevrolet BelAir two door hard top. After hours and hours of hard work the car was race ready, where they entered it various drag races in Washington and Canada.

Gary's passion for cars grew and so did his dream to have a business of his own. Gary saved and sacrificed to purchase tools and opened Larson Auto on May 1, 1985. Gary loved working on cars. He took pride in every automobile he worked on. Customers often recognized how spotless his shop is along with the impeccable reputation of the quality and workmanship. His ethical practices earned him the business of the City of Burlington, Burlington Police Department, the Washington State Patrol, The Skagit Casino, along with many many supportive and loyal customers.

Although his business was important to him his first priority was his family. They have many memories of camping at Beachwood, Lake Chelan, Crescent Bar and many years of hunting and lots of BBQ's with Gary at the grill.

Gary is survived by his wife of 43 years Sandi; their two children; Crystal and her husband Brian Sayer, Scott Larson and his wife Connie. Along with their grandchildren; Zach Larson, his girlfriend Kayla Hill, Noah, Nathan and Hannah Sayer, Cody, Drew and Emily Larson. His mother Bernice Larson, brother Gerald Larson and his wife Robbie, sisters; Georgia Thomsen, Barbara Walcott, Patricia Reed, Delora Johnson and her husband Jim. And numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Memorial service for Gary will be held Saturday March 19, 2011 at 11:00 am at Hawthorne Funeral Home, 1825 East College Way, Mount Vernon, WA 98273 where a reception will follow.

The family would like to extend their sincere thank you to Dr. Bruce Mathey, Dr. Stephen Pedersdorf, Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, U of W Medical Center, Skagit Hospice and many Drs and nurses who have taken such amazing care of Gary. With a very special thanks to his favorite nurses at the U of W Medical Center, Danielle and Cara. And many heartfelt thanks to our loyal customers and friends for their prayers, cards and well wishes.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Arrangements are under the care of Hawthorne Funeral Home, Mount Vernon.