Gary Gebo

Aug 11, 1937 -

Feb 22, 2026

Gary Glen Gebo, 88, passed away peacefully on Feb. 22, 2026, after a courageous battle with aggressive lung cancer. He faced his illness with strength and quiet determination, fighting for the time he so deeply cherished with his beloved wife, Rose, and his family.

Gary was born on Aug. 11, 1937, in Oak Creek, Colo. His father worked as a coal miner during the Great Depression, instilling in him the resilience and work ethic that would guide his life.

He graduated from Anchorage High School in 1955, and went on to earn his degree from the University of Washington. He then proudly served four years in the United States Marine Corps as a fighter pilot. During his service, he was selected for astronaut training as part of Project Gemini — an extraordinary honor that reflected his discipline, skill and courage.

Following his military service, Gary continued his lifelong passion for aviation, becoming a commercial airline pilot for Western Airlines and later Delta Air Lines. He loved to fly and would often say with a smile, "I can't believe they are paying me."

A longtime resident of Vaughn, Wash., Gary found his greatest joy at home on Vaughn Bay. Family was the center of his world. He was married to his wife, Rose, for 25 wonderful years and cherished every moment with her. He welcomed his daughters-in-law, Nilofar and Joelle, not only as family, but truly as daughters. Summers were especially meaningful as he eagerly anticipated visits from his grandchildren, delighting in time spent together playing in the water and creating memories that will endure.

Gary was also deeply committed to his community. He established and led the water aerobics program at Camp Easter in Vaughn for 25 years, bringing encouragement, energy and friendship to all who participated. He also dedicated 10 years to tutoring mathematics for the local GED program, generously giving his time to help others achieve their educational goals.

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

He will be remembered for his strength, humility, service to others, deep devotion to family and the steady love he gave so generously. His legacy lives on in all who were fortunate enough to know him.