Lyle Gary Gunkel

Gary Gunkel, 77, passed away at his home on March 25, 2016. Gary was born December 5, 1938 in Lindsey, CA. He served his country in the United States Marine Corps. Gary married Ann on December 5, 1959. He was a champion dog sled racer and adventurer. He used his dog team to rescue four people during a blizzard on Mt. Rose. He worked in law enforcement as an Anchorage police officer, Seldovia Chief of Police, Alaska State Trooper, and was the first Republican in 50 years elected as Sheriff of Asotin County in Washington State. Gary was a bush pilot, hunter, trapper and commercial fisherman. His marksmanship earned him a gold medal in the Arctic Winter Games. During his later years in Washington State, Gary was a coffee roaster, painter and author. His faith was center in his life and he enjoyed teaching Sunday school. Gary accomplished whatever he set his mind to and often used innovative ways to succeed. Gary's love of adventure was only surpassed by his love for his family. Survivors include his wife, Ann Gunkel of Independence, MO; two daughters, Karen Anghel of East Meadow, NY and Beth Carrick of Independence, MO; one son, Mark Gunkel of Thorne Bay, AK; ten grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Condolences may be left at www.floralhillsfuneralhome.com.

Arr.: D.W. Newcomer's Sons Floral Hills Funeral Home, 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd., KCMO 64133 (816) 353-1218.