It's with great sadness we share this post.

Gary Douglas Wilson

May 31, 1949 – October 19, 2024

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."

Gary Douglas Wilson was born on May 31, 1949, in Portland, Oregon, to Cecil and Dona Wilson. He passed away peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by family, on the morning of October 19, 2024, in Jefferson, Oregon.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Dona, and his youngest brother, Rick Wilson.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 55 years, Judy Wilson, his high school sweetheart. He also leaves behind his children, Justin (Toshia), Tim, and Sarah (Scott); grandchildren, Beau (Eryn), Ethan, Taylor, Nolan, and Grace; and step-grandchildren, Kaden, Camille, and Cody. His older brother, Bob (Marge) Wilson, also survives him.

Gary was the best "Papa" to his grandchildren, who were fortunate to have a role model like him. He was immensely proud of each of them and never missed a chance to teach life lessons, offering wisdom, support, and encouragement to help them become the best versions of themselves.

Raised in the North Kenton neighborhood of Portland, Gary graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1967. It was during these years that he met Judy at a high school football game on October 16, 1964—a chance encounter that blossomed into a lifelong love story.

Gary and his childhood best friend since the age of 5, Tom Hofmann, were inseparable, calling each other "Wilmann," a playful blend of their last names.

In 1968, Gary began working for Southern Pacific Railroad. The following year, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served from 1969 to 1971 with the 5th Battalion, 23rd Infantry. Though originally ordered to Vietnam, his unit was instead deployed to Alaska.

On February 27, 1970, Gary and Judy married in Vancouver, Washington, and spent their first year as newlyweds in Alaska. After his military service, Gary returned to Southern Pacific Railroad, dedicating 42 years to the company. He worked in the Bridge, Building, and Utilities Department based out of Eugene, Oregon. Following the merger with Union Pacific in 1996, Gary earned numerous safety and employee awards during his distinguished career.

In 1972, the family relocated to Albany, Oregon, to make Gary's commute to Eugene more manageable. Family was at the heart of Gary's life—he never missed a gathering and was often the life of the party.

Gary's passion for sports extended beyond cheering for his children during their younger years. He was a dedicated sports card collector and dealer, actively participating in card shows throughout Oregon. A lifelong Portland Trail Blazers fan, Gary was a season ticket holder for many years and loved taking his grandchildren to games. One of his fondest memories was attending the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas with his two oldest grandsons, Beau and Ethan.

Beyond sports, Gary had a deep love for tropical destinations. Aruba became a second home for Gary and Judy, and he loved cruising—especially with the extended Wilson family.

Gary's devotion to animals was reflected in his cherished relationships with his German Shepherds: Zeno, Whitney, Jordan, and Kona. It brings the family comfort to know that Gary has now reunited with his loved ones—both human and canine.

A private ceremony will be held at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland at a future date, with close family and friends in attendance.

The Wilson family extends their sincere gratitude to Evergreen Hospice, with special recognition to Gary's nurse, Anah, for her compassionate care throughout his final months.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Gary's honor to:

• SafeHaven Humane Society https://safehavenhumane.org/

• Samaritan Evergreen Hospice Samaritan Evergreen Hospice https://samhealth.org/giving/

Thank you AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home we sincerely thank you for the care and compassion throughout this process.

Gary's kindness, humor, and zest for life will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.