Obituary of Gary Stemhagen

Gary Stemhagen of Othello passed peacefully at his home with family and friends at his side on November 8th, 2014, after a short fight with lung cancer. Gary was born in Cass County, North Dakota, April 2nd, 1940 to Helen and Oscar Stemhagen. His family later settled in Mt Vernon, Washington where he grew up, and attended school. He later worked in the fishing industry in Alaska until he relocated to Royal City. He was self-employed for many years. He met his wife Patty in Royal City. They were married May 19, 1979 in Mt Vernon. They had three children, Cassi, Kyle, and Derek. The family moved to Othello in 1988, where he continued working in food service, then at Lake Bowl. Later he worked for People for People to help keep busy after retiring. He was a pro-bowler, enjoyed all sports and truly loved his family and a good joke. He is survived by his wife, Patty of Othello Washington, his children, Cassi of Tri Cities Washington, Derek of Tri Cities Washington, and Kyle (Stephanie) of Moses Lake Washington, and Dean of Mt Vernon, brother, Allan Stemhagen, sister, Joanne Browning of Mt Vernon and sister, Charmaine McCormick of Republic. He also leaves one grandchild, “his little pumpkin”, Kylie, and numerous nieces and nephews to cherish his loving memory. He is preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Helen Stemhagen, sister Marlys Conn, and niece Karen Walker. A private gathering for family and friends will be held at a later date. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Chapel.