ForeverMissed
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His Life

Full Obituary

June 10, 2015

Gary S. Michaels, loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle, passed away at the age of 59 on Wednesday, June 3rd. He is survived by his wife, Kathy (Prouty) Michaels, daughter Katie Landskron (Jason), son Steven Michaels (Amanda), son Kevin Michaels, brother Paul “Rick” Michaels (Elise), sister Judy Osborne (Bob), two grandchildren, Aria and Cole, and many nieces, nephews extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Paul S. Michaels and June O. Michaels.

 

Gary was born in Tacoma at St. Joseph's Hospital in 1955. He lived in Fircrest throughout his childhood and into adulthood. He will be remembered for finding humor in every situation, leaving lasting memories of warmth and laughter with those who met him. Gary was a devoted fisherman, enjoying catching fish from his own back yard in western Washington, to his secret spot on the Swan River in Montana, to memorable trips fishing with his dad in Canada. He was also a man of deep Christian faith, which was evident in the care and love he showed in ensuring the health and happiness of his family.

 

A man of many talents, Gary ran his own tile installation business for 20 years and was known for the quality and creativity of his work, even venturing into designing and firing his own tiles. At various times in his life Gary used his creative talents to start a business making chocolate truffles, to brew (and sample) delicious homebrews of beer and mead, and cooking and baking whatever he was in the mood for, most often without a recipe, and always ending up with tasty food. His artistic hand was also seen in his stained-glass art pieces and delicately crafted lampwork glass beads, as well as the beautiful landscaping he created at the various homes he owned over his lifetime, often including a pond (sometimes complete with fish, not always including water).

 

Above all, Gary had an undying love for his wife of 36 years, his Sweetie, which was obvious to anyone who saw them together. He said his greatest accomplishment was raising three children who grew up to be adults who still loved to spend time with their old man.

 

A memorial will be held in July. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Gary's favorite charity: the Tacoma Rescue Mission. Donations can be made online at trm.org.