Gary Gene Sundquist's Obituary
Gary Gene Sundquist was born on March 13th, 1950, in Portland, Oregon to Jessie Opal Noyes Sundquist and Neil Gene Sundquist.
Born into a blended family, he was the 8th of 9 children, sandwiched between sisters Anita and LaVerna.
He went to Chapman Elementary School in Northwest Portland, graduated from Lincoln High School in 1968, and received his Bachelor of Science in 1972 from Portland State University.
After working various jobs he returned home and took over the property management duties when his father died in 1976.
After that he spent most of his life managing the family farm and rental properties, and caring for his mother until her death in 2004.
Gary was a longtime member of Cascade Woodturners, American Association of Wood Turners, Northwest Woodturners, the Guild of Oregon Woodworkers, and the Oregon Carvers Guild.
Following a long illness, Gary passed away Thursday February 9th, 2023, in St. Helens Oregon at the age of 72. He was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend. A kind and gentle man.
"Gary was a kind and unpretentious person. As a group, we don't remember him saying any unkind words about anyone. He was very supportive. He encouraged others by highlighting their successes." Max McBurnett, friend and fellow woodturner
Gary's passing leaves a huge hole in the hearts of all who knew him. He is survived by his remaining siblings, Doris Chryst, Donovan (Lucy) Philips, LaVerna (Dan) Koch, Shari (Daniel) Miller, many nieces, nephews, and friends.
What’s your fondest memory of Gary?
What’s a lesson you learned from Gary?
Share a story where Gary's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Gary you’ll never forget.
How did Gary make you smile?