Gary Arlin Launt

1934 - 2023

Gary Arlin Launt

August 10, 1934 - December 28, 2023

Boise, Idaho - Gary Arlin Launt concluded his 89 year journey of wonderment when he gently passed on Thursday, December 28, 2023 in Boise, Idaho.

He was born at his parents' home on Friday, August 10, 1934 in Hackberry Hollow, Nebraska - a place that often elicited confusion and endless amusement. Starting life on the edge of the Dust Bowl during The Great Depression, he slept for months in a bureau drawer until it became apparent that, against all odds, he would survive. He made the most of this gift of life.

In 1944, Gary moved with his parents from Nebraska to Idaho. One of the schools he attended was North Junior High, and he had fond memories of exploring downtown Boise. During this time, he recalled meeting his future father-in-law, Rex Walters, when Rex was still a patrol officer.

After graduating from Nampa High School, Gary enlisted in the United States Air Force, then enjoyed surveying Hell's Canyon and surrounding areas before pursuing a Master's degree in Psychology at Boise Junior College (now BSU), Idaho State University, and the University of Washington.

Gary married Brenda Walters in 1960, and he always felt blessed with their 4 daughters.

In 1967 he returned from graduate school in Seattle to the North End with his young family, and they made a home near Hyde Park. Here, he and his wife raised their four daughters, all of whom went to the same North Junior High that he had attended. Gary and Brenda frequently entertained a remarkably diverse group of friends, relatives, and colleagues. Over the years, Gary expanded and remodeled their home; it was a labor of love.

He was a progressive social worker in Idaho, and a lifelong advocate and activist for women's rights. Gary quietly made a profound impact on the lives of countless women and children over the course of his public service career.

After resigning from Idaho State Health and Welfare, Gary held a variety of jobs, working for others until he became a painting contractor. He was divorced after 26 years of marriage, and remained devoted to his family.

A minimalist, Gary wasn't inclined to accumulate wealth or possessions. If he had extra money, he gave it to those who needed it. His generosity in both material and intangible matters was unique, but it was the essence of Gary's nature, and he walked a path that was true.

A master of The Irish Goodbye, Gary always created more ripples of excitement than he realized, as everyone inevitably played "Where's Dad?" at family events. He was also known to suddenly appear or call exactly when he was needed; his intuitive connection to others was powerful.

Gary loved the Lord and had an unwavering faith. Throughout his life, Gary never hesitated to come to the aid of people in need, whether he knew them or not. He saw the people who were overlooked, heard those who were suffering in silence, and understood the marginalized. He had a gift for listening to what was unspoken, and responded with respectful compassion and with all the help he could give, even if it risked his own wellbeing. He maintained each confidence, but he remembered everyone. Although it wasn't in his character to think about it, he indelibly touched the lives and hearts of multitudes.

Gary exemplified a life of humility, grace, altruism, humor, benevolence, and gratitude. He was a true humanitarian, a dear friend, and a beloved father and grandfather. Those who knew Gary will miss him always.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents: Genevieve (Patrick) and J Paul Launt; his grandparents: Mary (Petty) and Guy Patrick; 2 aunts: Donna (Patrick) Pilakowski, and Janice (Patrick) Kirkpatrick; his uncle Duane Patrick; his Nebraska grandparents: Cassie (Thompson) and William E Launt; and an infant older brother, his only sibling.

He is survived by his 4 daughters: Deborah (David Anderson), Theresa (Eric Stanley), Linda (Jeff Stanley), and Sandra (Don Lee); 12 grandchildren: Jason Laufenburger, Whitley "Sassy" (Derrick Morlino), Brandon Lee, Kathryn Anderson, Alekzander Anderson, Samantha (Chris Strickley), Alyxandra Poe, Brittney (Jordan Carr), Patrick Stanley, Olivia "OG" Stanley, Walter Lee, and Winnie Lee; and 8 great-grandchildren: Leah Laufenburger, Traedon Laufenburger, Orion Morlino, Leander Morlino, Grayson Strickley, Emberlyn Strickley, Anson Carr, and Clara Stanley.

Donations in memoriam may be made to any humanitarian organization, in honor of Gary's life.