Gary Dwight Gifford passed away peacefully on December 13th, 2020, surrounded by family. He was freed from his long battle of cancer and has been restored to health with Jesus in heaven.

Gary was born to Paul and Audrey Gifford in Yakima, WA on February 9, 1940.

In 1957, at age 17, Gary joined the United States Navy where he served as a boatswain's mate on the USS Henrico and then later served on the USS Hancock CVA-19 with his brother David.  During one of his 72 hour liberties he came upon a little white chapel. He went inside and felt the presence of Jesus. During this time he accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior which would change his life forever.

Gary married Lillian Zielke in 1960 and they had 3 children, daughters Kimberly and Kristine and son Craig. They raised their family in Blaine, WA where Gary had many occupations, including starting Blaine's first garbage collection business. He worked at Intalco aluminum and later owned and operated his own commercial tractor trailer, hauling freight from Spokane to Los Angeles. After years as an independent operator he began a long career with Brown Line Trucking as a driver and then dispatcher. He formed many close relationships with his co-workers. Everyone who knew Gary was familiar with his love of the Lord, as well as his wonderful homemade bread and cinnamon rolls.

On July 11, 2010 married Cheryl Wudtke and they made their home in Mount Vernon, WA. Gary loved his family more than anything else in life.

Gary is survived by his wife, Cheryl Gifford, his children Kimberly (Tracy) Williams, Kristine (Dave) Vande Garde, Craig Gifford. Grand children include Heather (Kevin) Rogerson, Nathan Haslip and Angela Vande Garde. Gary was so proud to be great grandfather to Audrey and Finnegan Rogerson who lovingly called him "Great Umpa". In addition to these he is survived by brothers David (Joanne) Gifford, Lonnie (Cassie) Gifford and sister Pamela (Denny) Abel as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends.

In Gary's life he always wanted to be a shining light sharing the gospel and the love of Christ with family, friends and neighbors. May God be glorified by Gary's life well lived!

A celebration of Gary's life will occur on Saturday, January 9, 2021 at 2:00pm at Emmanuel Baptist Church 1515 E. College Way, Mount Vernon, WA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gary's name to Emmanuel Baptist Church in furtherance of their ministry.

A special thank you to the Hospice of the Northwest team for all your patience, compassion, and encouragement as we experienced Gary's last few months. You are truly a community treasure.