Obituary of Gary Jergensen

Gary Jergensen was born on December 30th, 1954, in Raymond, Washington—the long-awaited and dearly loved son of Arthur and Stella Jergensen. He passed away peacefully at home on February 16th, 2025, the much-loved husband of Karleen and the beloved father of Eric (Emilee), Kevin, and Stuart (Rachael). His family finds comfort in knowing he is now with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Gary treasured his small-town upbringing in Raymond, where he learned to hunt and fish. A 1973 graduate of Raymond High School, he enjoyed football, academics, wrestling, band, and most importantly, the friendships he formed with his classmates—many of which spanned over 50 years. He went on to earn degrees in Chemical Engineering and Forestry from the University of Washington, leading to a nearly 40-year career in the paper industry. Gary enjoyed his work in the paper industry and valued the life-long friendships he built along the way. Gary was immensely proud of his sons, who each pursued engineering degrees of their own. He also found joy in seeing his father’s talents reflected in them. He enjoyed being fully engaged and immersed in their activities as children, and relished the phone calls, texts, and time spent with his sons and their families as adults. Living life to the fullest included following Jesus and living in community at his church. He was a devoted husband and father, passionate fisherman, gardening enthusiast, card player, former marathon runner, Scoutmaster, Habitat for Humanity volunteer, soccer referee, kayaker, and clamdigger. The family holds fond memories of time spent at Ocean Park Camp. He and Karleen shared a love for travel, including three trips to Guatemala, where they built homes for Child Beyond. In 2020, Gary was diagnosed with cancer, but he continued to thrive between treatments. One of his greatest joys during this time was meeting and spending time with his five grandchildren: Emma, Maverick, Seth, Ian, and Chloe. He made the most of every moment, crabbing and fishing with Karleen, Eric, and Kevin this past fall, and sharing a special fishing trip with Stuart in Florida this January. It was a fitting final adventure before his health declined. He knew he was blessed and we were blessed knowing him. Gary is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, his sons and their wives, his treasured grandchildren, and his sister Nancy (Wade) along with nephews Kyle and Scott. He also leaves behind extended family members Connie, Mike, Kim, Cynthia, Randy, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. A celebration of Gary’s life will be held on Saturday, March 22nd, at 11:00 AM at Grace Foursquare Church in Camas, WA. All are welcome to attend, with lunch to follow the service.