Gary Ernest Stemler, 74, passed away quietly in his home in Camano Island, WA on November 6, 2015 after his second battle with cancer.

He was born in Des Moines, Iowa to Ernest and Dorothy Stemler. Gary grew up in Tacoma, WA, where he graduated from Wilson High School. He attended the University of Washington where he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering. While attending the UW, he met and married the new girl in his neighborhood, Cathleen Foubert. After graduation, they moved to the Portland, OR/ Vancouver, WA area where Gary went to work for the Bonneville Power Administration until his retirement in 2001.

He enjoyed travel, reading, cars, and especially spending time with his family and friends.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Cathy; their children Ed (Tricia), Karl (Lee), and Steve (Karen); eight grandchildren, Heather (Aidan) Hartman, Heidi, Colton, Jake, Angela, Sammy, Nate and Evan Stemler; and one great-grandchild, Hattie Hartman; his sisters, Betty (Keith) Gross and Barbara Boskovich; as well as many nieces, nephews and close friends who were more like family. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Beverly Trosper.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, 26900 78th Ave NW, Stanwood, WA 98292 on Friday, November 20th at 12 noon.

Arrangements under the direction of Gilbertson Funeral Home, Stanwood.