Gary Ralph Severson

Gary Ralph Severson, a beloved father, husband, brother, friend, and community leader, passed away on August 20, 2025, in Tigard, Oregon. He was 81 years old.

Born on January 27, 1944, in Portland, Oregon, Gary was the eldest son of Ralph and Ruth Severson. His life was filled with family, accomplishment, and service.

Gary graduated from Wilson High School in Portland, where he excelled in tennis and served as student body president. He earned a bachelor's degree in economics from Stanford University, an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, and an MS from the University of Southern California. He then served as an officer in the United States Air Force, attaining the rank of captain.

He went on to a distinguished career in banking and service on numerous boards. As an executive he was both dedicated and imaginative, rising to leadership positions at Bank of America, Security Pacific, and First Interstate Bank. Later, he held directorship positions on over thirty boards, most notably chairing those of Laird Norton Financial Group, Pacific Lutheran University, and Casey Family Programs. As a leader he encouraged others to share his ambitions, widen their expectations, and step away from their comfort zones. In 2019 he received the Lifetime Achievement Award for board work from the Puget Sound Business Journal.

Gary's home was often filled with the warmth and laughter of family and friends. He delighted in hosting dinners and trips, planning every detail to maximize the experience. Gary relished crossword and jigsaw puzzles and was a formidable card and game player. He loved the Oregon Coast and was also an avid traveler; he studied in Florence, Italy while in college and later explored the world on many international trips.

Gary was a devoted husband to Katharine "Kit" Severson and embraced their life together in Gig Harbor, Washington. He was a proud father to Matthew Severson (deceased) and Robert Severson (his children with former wife Madge Hussey (deceased)), and Carley Kahn and Elin Severson (his children with former wife Cheryl Severson). Gary was a doting grandfather to his five grandchildren: Emily Severson, Aden Severson, and Sofia Severson (children of Matthew and Shannon Severson) and Evander Kahn and Wilhelmina Kahn (children of Carley and Brian Kahn). Gary enjoyed a very close relationship with his siblings Alan Severson, Mark Severson, and Gayle (and Rick) Berg. He is also survived by his stepchildren Nevis Granum and Kya Granum (children of Kit Severson).

Gary's dedication, generosity, and love for family and community will be deeply missed. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Gary Severson Fund at Pacific Lutheran University. https://www.plu.edu/advancement/tribute-giving/