Gary Glen Gebo

Longtime Vaughn resident Gary Gebo died peacefully Feb. 22 from lung cancer. He faced his illness with strength and determination, fighting for the time he cherished with his beloved wife, Rose, and his family. He was 88 years old.

Gary was born in 1937 in Oak Creek, Colorado. His father worked as a coal miner during the Great Depression, instilling in Gary the resilience and work ethic that would guide him throughout his life.

He graduated from Anchorage High School in 1955 and went on to earn his degree from the University of Washington. After college, Gary served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps as a fighter pilot. He was selected for astronaut training as part of Project Gemini — an honor reflecting his discipline, skill, and dedication.

Following his military service, Gary became a commercial airline pilot for Western Airlines and later continued flying for Delta after the merger. He loved flying and would often say, “I can’t believe they are paying me.”

Gary found his greatest happiness at his home on Vaughn Bay, where family was always at the center of his life. He was married to his wife Rose for 25 wonderful years and warmly welcomed his daughters-in-law, as if they were his own daughters. He especially cherished summer visits from his grandchildren, enjoying time together playing in the water and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Gary was also deeply committed to his community. He founded and led the water aerobics program at Camp Easter Seal in Vaughn for 25 years and spent 10 years tutoring mathematics for the local GED program, helping others to reach their goals.

Gary is survived by his wife Rose; sons David and his wife Joelle, and Michael and his wife Nilofar; and cherished grandchildren Brittney Vanderveen, Brandon Gebo, Michelle Gebo, Danielle Gebo, and Ryann Gebo.

He will be remembered for his strength, humility, generosity, and unwavering devotion to family.