Gail Clifford Carlstrom

Gail Clifford Carlstrom was born on September 2, 1932, in Yakima, Washington, to Clifford Carlstrom and Leota Sarah Dunnick. He was one of two children, preceded in death by his sibling, Dove Carlstrom.

Gail grew up in Yakima, where he completed his intermediate and high school education in the Yakima Unified School District, graduating from A.C. Davis High School.

In 1952, Gail enlisted in the United States Coast Guard, proudly serving his country for 22 years and rising to the rank of Chief Petty Officer (E-7). After retiring from military service in 1974, he returned home to Yakima and began a second career as a mechanic with Yakima County, where he worked for 16 years. During this time, he met the love of his life, Elzora Willis, and the two were married in Stockton, California, in 1972.

Gail and Elzora—affectionately known as “Zee”—shared a love of travel, exploring the country by car due to Gail’s aversion to flying. The open road was his happy place. Together, they became founding members of the Suncountry Mustang Club, attending countless car shows and forging lifelong friendships along the way. Their shared passion for antiques and unique treasures took them to many cities in search of special finds, always making time to visit family during their travels.

A true lover of Westerns, Gail rarely passed up a chance to watch a classic cowboy movie, especially those starring his favorite actor, John Wayne—“The Duke.” If you watched TV with him, you were likely in for Westerns like Bonanza, a few game shows, and come Christmas time, his beloved National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation with Chevy Chase. In his shop, you could often find him listening to Dean Martin as he tinkered with projects.

His military discipline stayed with him throughout his life. Gail was meticulous—almost legendary—for cataloging, saving, and organizing receipts and records. His family lovingly teased him about it, but he always knew exactly where everything was. He had a hearty appreciation for good food and a soft spot for vanilla wafers, chocolate chip cookies, and candy.

Gail leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and treasured memories. He is survived by his devoted wife, Elzora Carlstrom; his son, Rodney Carlstrom, and Bonnie Lozano; his daughter, Marla Ferguson, and her husband, Greg Ferguson; his daughters Lois Phelps and Victoria Westbrooks; and his son, Troy Westbrooks. He is also survived by his grandchildren—Stewart, Kingsley, La Shawn Phelps, and Kymberli Phelps-Carr—his nephew, Marshall, as well as extended family and many dear friends.

Gail’s life was one well-lived, filled with service, adventure, dedication, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew him.

A funeral service will be held at Keith & Keith Funeral Home, located at 902 West Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA, 98902. The service is scheduled for December 11, 2025, with a time for viewing starting at 10:00 am, the funeral service will begin at 11:00am. A graveside committal will follow at 12:30pm at Tahoma Cemetery, 1802 Tahoma Ave, Yakima, WA 98902. We will return to Keith & Keith for a time of reception, following the graveside.