Gary Wilson Obituary
He was born on November 26, 1943, in Toppenish, Washington, to Woodrow and Edna. The youngest of three children, he grew up alongside his brother, Keith Wilson, and sister, Kay Layne. Though he was the baby of the family, he would grow into the strongest man any of us have ever known.
Gary married the love of his life, Joyce, in 1988. Together they built a life centered around family.
He spent his career at Romaine Electric, where he was influential in the expansion of the business and took deep pride in his work. He loved working there and retired just this past fall after many dedicated years.
Gary found his greatest peace outdoors. Camping wasn't just something he enjoyed - it was something he shared. He loved loading up the trailer, setting up camp, building the fire, and gathering everyone close as the evening settled in. Some of the most cherished family memories were made under tall trees and open skies, with Gary at the center of it all. Being in nature was where he felt most himself, and bringing his family along was his greatest joy.
He never missed an opportunity to tell it how it was. He could be gruff at times - but he loved his family fiercely. All any of us ever wanted was to make him proud.
He fought his illness with grit and grace, demonstrating the same strength and determination that defined him throughout his life.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce; his daughter, Julie, and her husband, Rich; his son, Mike of Kentucky; his cherished grandchildren, Haylie, Natalie, and Jacob; his brother, Keith Wilson, and his wife, Cheri; his sister, Kay Layne and Bob Layne; his sisters- and brothers-in-law, Jean and Ernie Scott; Joan Naputi; Judy and Scott Laigo; Larry and Joanne Lord; and many nieces and nephews. His influence on our family was deep and lasting, and his strength will continue to shape us for years to come.
He passed as he lived - surrounded by love, family, and unwavering devotion.
A private family memorial will be held.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
0 Entries
Be the first to post a memory or condolences.
8226 212th Street SW, Edmonds, WA 98026
Make a Donation
in Gary Wilson's name
People and places connected with Gary
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Gary's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Gary Wilson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
