Gary Michael Wanzer,died at home on Oct. 6 with the wonderful care given by Home Health Care and Hospice and loving friends and relatives.

Memorial services for Gary Michael Wanzer were held at Peaceful Firs Ranch in Freeland, on Oct. 17, 2010. This was Gary’s home for five years, which he shared with his companion, Barb Pomeroy.

Gary was described in the service led by Pastor Jim Lindus of Trinity Lutheran Church in Freeland (Gary’s home church) as a “most-gentle man, a giant of a man, with an even bigger heart. Gary embraced every living thing.”

Gary was born in Seattle on Sept. 18, 1951 to Betty and Ernie Wanzer.

He graduated from Mount Rainier High School in 1970 and continued his education at Western Washington University in Bellingham. He made his home on Lake Whatcom, working for

20 years for Brooks Mill as a planer foreman.

Gary married Carol Ann DeWitt on July 22, 1995 in Bellingham. They moved together to Whidbey Island in 1997. Carol Ann preceded him in death on May 27, 2003.

Gary’s favorite hours were spent in or on the water. He loved sailing his 20-foot Ranger that he owned for

30 years. He was a favored harbormaster for the Langley Marina for three years, until his ill heart disabled him. Many boaters were assisted by this quiet, patient man. He was much appreciated.

Surviving Gary are his parents Betty and Ernie Wanzer of Allyn; his daughter Rachel Ellen Wanzer, her companion Zoli Semanate, his son Leo and daughter Raquel of Lynnwood; three brothers and their wives: Greg and Rita Wanzer of Sequim, Ric and Jan Wanzer of Mukilteo, and Paul and Em Wanzer of Mercer Island; Carol’s daughter and son Katie DeWitt of Lynnwood, and Eli DeWitt and his wife Heather and son Ryan of Bellingham; and seven nieces and nephews.

The loss of Gary is deeply felt by Barb and his Australian shepherd dogs, Brandy, Blue and Bug.

Friends and family may view an online obituary and sign the guestbook at www.visserfuneralhome.com.