Gary James Kohlmeyer, husband, father, and grandfather has passed away at the age of 82 after his battle with lung cancer. Gary was born on November 5, 1940, to parents Leland James (Jim) Kohlmeyer and Mary Ann Peschka Kohlmeyer in Oakland, CA.

He is survived by his siblings Fritzi Bronec, Lois Hassing, Bill Kohlmeyer (Skyla), and Beth Mallon (Kevin). He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Jean Howard, brothers-in-law Doug Howard, Joe Bronec, Dave Hassing, brother Steve Kohlmeyer, and wife Dianne Kohlmeyer.

Gary graduated from St. Joseph High School in San Lorenzo, CA, in 1959, and went on to attend Laney Trade School to further his education. Gary married his wife Dianne on January 11, 1964 and, in 1969, they moved from Oakland, CA to Silverton, OR to raise their family. Gary was the father to Mark Kohlmeyer, and Cindy Vaughn (Ken). He had three grandchildren Kalie Austin (Cole), Kylie Vaughn, and Chance Kohlmeyer, along with one great granddaughter Elsie Austin.

Gary had a long and successful career working as a machinist for Boeing in Gresham OR. Upon his retirement his hobbies included building model airplanes and ships, attending airshows, fly fishing, watching classic western films, and reading Stephen King novels. He was known for his quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, and storytelling. Gary was always the life of the party, and everyone enjoyed being around him.

Gary requested a private service for immediate family with a celebration of life for both him and his wife Dianne at a later date, as she preceded him in death just four months prior. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your local library to honor his love for reading. Arrangements are by Unger Funeral Chapel - Silverton.