Gary Dean Wallace

GARY DEAN WALLACE January 29, 1947 ~ July 20, 2018 Gary Dean Wallace passed peacefully into the presence of the Lord July 20, 2018, in Vancouver, WA, surrounded by his loving family. He was born January 29, 1947, in Yakima, WA. He was the son of Helen and Dean Wallace. Gary spent his younger years in the Yakima-Goldendale area and eventually moved to Portland and then Vancouver. He graduated from Evergreen High School in 1965 and Seattle Pacific University in 1969. Gary began working for the Evergreen School District in 1971, where his four decades career in education began. He taught at both elementary and middle school levels before moving to the District Office where his administrative responsibilities included supervision of programs in Science, Math, Alcohol/Drug Education, Library/Media, Outdoor School, Human Growth and Development, and the Elementary Swim Program. Near the end of his career, Gary coordinated the Native American Program. This program was very near and dear to his heart, as it represented pride and love of his own Native American ancestry. Gary will be remembered for his very strong work ethic, beginning at age nine when he had his own paper route. At the age of 18, he began commercial fishing during the summers in Alaska with his dad and brothers, taking on responsibilities beyond his years. Gary passed this strong work ethic on to his two sons, who were his pride and joy. Gary always put others first and was always willing to lend a helping hand wherever needed. His selfless nature was evident through all circumstances. As his physical health declined, Gary showed a mental toughness, and through it all he was the loving, caring husband/dad/grandpa/brother who remained focused on others and wouldn't let those around him see how much he was suffering. Gary is survived by his wife, Sally; sons, Adam (Allison) and Sloan Wallace; stepdaughters, Brandi (Dave) Towner and Robin (Kevin) Miller; grandchildren, Owen, Addyson, Jaylyn, Luke and Taylor; father, Dean; sister, Nancy (Mike) Burdick; brothers, Rod (Dawn) and Greg (Lori) Wallace; plus many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Helen . A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 18, Noon, at Glenwood Community Church, Vancouver, WA. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Diabetes Association.

Gary Dean Wallace

January 29, 1947 - July 20, 2018