Owen D Gaskill

Owen Dean Gaskill was born February 7th 1920 and entered the presence of God July 5th 2011. He grew up in Flint, MI hunting and fishing with his dad. The family moved to Marshall, MI where he met and married his high school sweetheart, Melba Mary Mann on July 4th 1942,

He served in the military from 1942 to 1952 and was among the first occupation forces to arrive in Japan where Melba joined him for 2 years. While serving his country, he obtained his Bachelors of Science in mechanical engineering from Michigan State University in 1952. Their only child, Sharon Kay, was born that same year.

He worked for the National Carbon Company in Ohio, the Motor Wheel Corporation in Michigan and the Boeing Company in Washington State.

Owen was an avid bowler, golfer, fresh and salt water fisherman, mushroom picker and for a brief time rock hound. After retirement, he and Melba took several months touring the perimeter of the United States. Once they returned to their home in Auburn, WA, he opened his own business, Gaskill Woodworks where he built any and everything asked of him including lawn art, fine furniture, home décor and children’s toys. He even made training catapults for the Boeing Co. He belonged to a Bridge Club for many years. He also enjoyed playing cribbage and poker.

After the death of his first wife, a lovely red head caught his eye. He and Renee (Brough) were married in 2000. They enjoyed many active and involved years together at Rio Verde Mobile Home Estates in Auburn, WA.

He often mushroomed in the Cascades and Olympics He said he felt closest to God when he was in the woods. For many years he sold prized Matsataki mushrooms to Uwajimayas in Seattle.

At the age of 87 he hiked to within 750 ft of the top of Mail Box point, possibly one of the oldest men to make the hike. He was also a skilled and talented carver. He was especially fond of carving animals for friends and family.

Owen is preceded in death by his parents, Vera and Merle Gaskill, his sister and brother-in-law Vaughn and Harry Kistler and wives Melba (56 years) and Renee (11 years).

Owen realized his need of a Savior shortly before his death. He is now reunited with his many dear ones, and his Lord, Jesus Christ, in heaven.

Owen is survived by his daughter Sharon Kay Bingham (Tom), granddaughters, Tisha Gramann (Dave), Bonnie Bingham, Nichole Forgey (Jacob), Ginger Scroggins (Jeremy), Christine Bingham and 9 great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held at Tahoma National Cemetery on July 14th, 2011 at 2:30pm. A reception at the Bingham’s home will follow.