Gary was born in Huron, South Dakota, to Jack and Ruth Monfort. He traveled as a toddler to Washington with his mom, dad and brother Donald.
They settled down on a farm west of Battle Ground. The boys went to Battle Ground Schools. In high school, Gary earned his letterman’s Sweater playing football, basketball and baseball He graduated in 1954.
After school, he signed up for the U.S. Army. He served at Fort Lewis. From there, he went overseas to serve in the Korean War. He was a gunner on a tank and later went to cook and baker school in Lingrease, Germany, and became a cook.
Upon returning home, Gary tried several jobs until he ended up at Crown Zellerbach Wax and finish paper. While there, he met Marilyn Monfort and married her in 1981.
Crown changed to James River where he retired after 32 and a half years. After retirement, he moved to Cougar and they opened a small bed and breakfast. He also worked Summers for Pacific Corp and volunteered for Fire District 7. They were in Cougar 28 years and later moved to Woodland, where they still reside.
He died at home surrounded by family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn; one son and three daughters, Mike, (Kathy), Lynda (Chris), Christine (Paul) and Colleen (Randy); and 13 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He loved the outdoors, fishing, hunting and hiking. He loved country music, playing his guitar and humor. He was a great story teller. His giant smile will be missed by all. Gary was taken home to be with Jesus on Oct. 30.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Nov. 23 at Pleasant View Community Church, 14756 Lewis River Road, Ariel, Washington. There will be food following the service.
