Gary Dean Gilger

Gary Dean Gilger passed away at his home in San Mateo surrounded by loving family on May 17, 2024. He was the beloved husband of Janet Anita Gilger; devoted father of Joshua Steven Gilger, Gregory James Gilger, and loving stepfather of Ashley Cruz Arata; dear brother of Rod Gilger and Judy Gilger; and cherished grandfather of Tori Catherine Gilger and Aubrey Ann Gilger. Gary was born in Fort Collins, Colorado September 15, 1953, son of Arthur and Hilda Gilger.
Gary enriched many people's lives just by being himself. His smile always filled the room with joy. He would give his time, effort and knowledge when needed; not expecting to be praised or rewarded for his efforts, but hoping that what he gave was a learning experience and would benefit you in the future.
Gary, affectionately known as McGilger, always had a solution or a plan. He was a carpenter by trade (member of Local 22 for 39 years) and we all learned something from him: grilling, building, sewing, gardening, fishing, skiing and countless other skills. Even if we didn't participate directly, his stories and wisdom have left a lasting imprint on our minds.
His immense caring and kindness were evident in his actions. Always playing the host so others can enjoy their time. We all knew if you got one of Gary's drinks, it was gonna be a wild ride. The joy on his face was equally felt in his heart for the joy he brought others. He was always there when needed. Build a house, there. Shovel a driveway, there. Plant a garden, there. Put together your college IKEA furniture, there. Drive across the country in a Honda Fit with all your personal belongings, there. Gary was simply a good, kind man.
Gary was also a deeply sentimental and emotional man. He cherished his friends and family. Fishing with buddies was always memorable. He had a glowing pride for his grandkids, Aubrey and Tori, love of his children, Josh, Gregory and Ashley, and a deep admiration for his wife, Janet. Gary's second love after his family and friends was Mother Nature. Gary was a mountain man - an avid skier, fly fisher, kayaker and hiker. Despite moving to the Bay Area from Colorado as a young child, Lake Tahoe always remained Gary's second home.
Though he is no longer physically with us, his infectious energy, humor and immense energy will always be a part of us. To honor and share the memory and energy of Gary Dean Gilger, remember to have a smile, crack a joke, enjoy friends and family, and be sure to impart some McGilger knowledge on the world.
A memorial service will be announced at a future date.