Gary was born in Spokane, WA on June 11th 1937 to his loving parents Harold and Berneice Rikerd (who later became Anderson). He attended Central Valley Highschool where he was best known for his athletic abilities in both football and baseball, eventually being offered to play for the Spokane Indians. Gary; however had a different plan and chose to join the U.S. Navy serving our country from 1954-1958.
After the service Gary relocated to Yakima, WA where he started his career, eventually marrying and had his three biggest accomplishments, Kevin (mother Lorraine) Amber and Erika (mother Joyce). He was a devoted father, who worked hard, provided for his family and did his very best to be the father they in turn were proud of.
Gary was a very active man, he loved to play baseball and fastpitch (later in life), Hunting every year with his family, bowling, golfing any chance he could, teaching his kids the art of most every sport and coaching his "Charlie's Angels". He retired from Montgomery Ward as the valley's service technician and later worked for Eagle/Lowes hardware until retiring again in 2002.
He was welcomed home in heaven by his mom, dad, Brothers David, Denny and an infant brother.
Gary wanted to live his best life until the very end and was able to do that knowing he had the love and support from his family, friends and the amazing caregivers God so perfectly blessed to him. Nisa and Maria, to you we are forever grateful.
Gary leaves behind two brothers Cecil(star)Rikerd, Wayne(Carol)Rikerd, sisters Kitty Holzer, Sherrie(Rick)Tuit and Patricia(Leon) Yotte from Spokane Washington, Brother Bill(Kathy)Anderson and sister Karen(Wayne)Montgomery in California, Son Kevin(Sheila)Rikerd, Daughter Amber, Daughter Erika (Chris) Camren. Grandkids, Lorisa, Amanda, Jacek, Jagar, Andrew, Rilynn, Saige, Hadlie, Greats, Skylar, Alex, Mckenzie, Stepdaughters Shanna, Alyssa Perry and loves bonded by their unions who have come and gone Lorraine Mulroy, Marna, Joyce Rikerd and Sandy Rikerd.
In lieu of flowers please donate to Seattle Cancer Alliance or Oak Creek Feeding Station.
A service will be held for family only on Nov 12th 2020 @ 10am, there will be a live stream from Langevin El Paraiso Funeral Home on their FB page for all to join. A Celebration of life will be held at a later time when we can all be together.
DONATIONS
Seattle Cancer Alliance
Oak Creek Feeding Station
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