Gary Emanuel Marks

Gary Marks was surrounded by his wife (Lisa), his children (Cambrie and Trevor), and his daughter-in-law (Lise) when he left us too soon on April 19, 2025. He knew his family was with him and how deeply loved he was by each.

Born on September 23, 1951 to Emanuel George "Sonny" Marks and Elizabeth (Fruin) Marks, Gary was a lifelong resident of Spokane. He was a graduate of Lewis and Clark High School and Washington State University, achieving his B.A. in Business Administration. He was passionate about all things Wazzu and remained a loyal supporter of Cougar academics and athletics, making countless trips to Pullman to cheer them on. He served as the President and Treasurer of the WSU chapter of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity for over 20 years and organized many events and celebrations for his beloved Beta brothers. He was a true, crimson-blooded Coug.

Professionally, many in the community know Gary from his work in the home mortgage business, largely with Washington Mutual. Throughout his 30-year career, he helped countless families realize their dreams of home ownership. Thanks to his strong moral compass and unmatched work ethic, he built a reputation as a reliable and ethical loan officer. He applied these traits to every aspect of his life - you won't find a more pristine yard or a cleaner garage in town than Gary's.

Gary's love for his country was profound, stemming from his father's service in World War II as a combat veteran of the European theater. Sonny Marks received the Bronze Star for his bravery on Utah Beach in Normandy and the Purple Heart for multiple injuries sustained in battle. Gary didn't travel abroad until later in his life, initially preferring to explore the beauty of America's National Parks and ski resorts. He eventually became a global traveler and planned unforgettable family trips to Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. He and Lisa made a pilgrimage to Normandy to honor his father and all other veterans.

Recreationally, Gary was born to be outdoors and he enjoyed a wide variety of sports and activities. He particularly loved to ski and golf, excelling at both. On the ski hill, he was poetry in motion no matter the conditions thanks to his rigorous training as a racer. He was a member of the Whiners golf group, sharing many great times and endless laughter with his buddies for over 40 years. He organized many golf events, including annual 4th of July tournaments at the Coeur d'Alene resort where he once hit a hole-in-one on the floating green. He supported community athletic events, participating in 39 Bloomsday runs and coaching Cambrie's Hoopfest teams.

Lake Coeur d'Alene was an area that Gary cherished and was his favorite place to spend time with family and friends. He spent his formative years fishing and waterskiing at his parents' cabin in Windy Bay and eventually purchased the small but beloved cabin in Black Bay 40 years ago with Lisa. When he wasn't busying himself with projects, he could be found reading in his porch chair, captaining (or cleaning) the boat, manning the barbecue with a G&T, or enjoying a favorite pastime: a nap on the dock. He took simple pleasure in observing wildlife and was especially thrilled when he got to see a moose. Well, except for that one time...

Gary was a devoted Christian, attending Plymouth Congregational Church and, later, Summit South Hill. His longtime minister once described him as completely authentic, full of integrity, and selfless in his service to others. One of his greatest acts of love was his stem cell donation for his younger brother, Grant, whom he adored and whose admiration was mutual.

Of all his accomplishments, passions, and pursuits, nothing was more dear to him than family. Gary married the love of his life, Lisa, and they shared a remarkable 43 years together. They raised a loving family, imparting their strong values to their kids by example. He adored Lisa with his whole heart and constantly spoke of how fortunate he was to walk through life with her. His children, Cambrie and Trevor, will honor him through all of the lessons and passions he passed down to them. They will ensure that future generations of family know the legend that is Gary Marks.

Gary will be remembered for the laughter, joy, and positivity he brought to his wide network of friends and family. The radiant smile that was always on his face and in his soul will forever live on in our hearts.

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A memorial service for Gary will be held on June 13th at 3pm hosted by Summit Church, located at 1801 E. 29th Ave. in Spokane.

The family would like to thank the care teams of the Beacon Clinic in Post Falls and the Kootenai Medical Center Infusion Clinic in Coeur d' Alene for their tireless hard work and kindness to Gary and the family. Gary called them angels on earth who give so much to so many.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages making a donation in Gary's honor to the Vitalant blood bank or one of the charities that he sponsored, including: Tunnels to Towers, Wounded Warrior Project, Second Harvest Food Bank, The City Gate, Spokanimal, First Tee, KSPS, Christ Kitchen, Union Gospel Mission, Spokane Symphony, Team Gleason and The Special Olympics. Also, please consider becoming a blood donor. It is because of so many generous blood donations that Gary was able to continue the fight.