Gary William Coats

Gary passed away at the age of 90 on July 12, 2025 in Clackamas, Oregon. He was raised in Bull Run Oregon, the only child of George and Anna Coats, and lived most of his adult life in Happy Valley. Gary graduated from Sandy High School, Portland State University in Education, and Lewis and Clark College with a Masters in Counseling. Gary served in the Navy reserves for 8 years. He worked until retirement for North Clackamas school district, first at Ickes Jr. High and then at Milwaukie High School. In 1958 he married Sandra Haag, and they celebrated 64 years together.

Gary was known for creating Foundations of American Democracy, a tour that he took with 8th grade students during the summers for 20 years. He also worked at the Memorial Coliseum in the catering department, and ran the Milwaukie Swim pool for more than 25 years teaching many people swim and lifesaving skills. He volunteered with Kaiser, and OHSU hospitals, and for many years at the Sandy Historical Society. Along with his wife Sandy, he traveled extensively and learned to sew quilts in his later years.

Gary was predeceased by his wife in 2022. He will be greatly missed by his daughters Lorrinda Coats Howarth (Kurt) and Heather Johnson (Thomas) and their spouses, his two grandchildren Dakota and Kyrie, as well as friends, extended family, and his faithful cat companion Louie.

A memorial and celebration of life service will be held at The Smile Station, 8210 SE 13th Avenue, Portland OR, 97202 on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 1:00pm.

Burial will be at Cliffside Cemetery in Sandy, Oregon.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances can be made to the Oregon Humane Society.