Theodore Gale Gunning

Theodore “Ted” Gale Gunning, a deeply loved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and faithful servant of Christ, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2026, at the age of 95, surrounded by family on Palm Sunday, the beginning of Holy Week. He now rejoices in the promise of Easter - Christ is risen.

Ted was born on February 8, 1931, in Spokane, Washington, where he would eventually raise his family and leave a lasting mark on the community. He was known for his innovative spirit, strong work ethic, generosity, and unwavering faith.

Family and Loved Ones

Ted was married to Diane, for nearly 50 years. He was previously married to Marilyn (deceased) for 18 years, with whom he had two children: Gary and Diane (married to Randy, deceased) Diane has two children, son Shane married to Becky, they have one son Randy, Teds only great grandchild; and daughter Cristy married to Ryan.

Diane brought into their marriage her sons Benjamin and Raymond, whom Ted lovingly adopted as his own. Benjamin married Wendy, and they have two sons, Gabriel and Colton. Raymond married Ronda, and together they have a son, Elijah.

Ted’s family grew even richer through relationships formed through there many years of traveling to Mexico. Brissia, a longtime family friend and daughter of Gabino (deceased) and Olga, became like a daughter to Ted and Diane. Her daughters, Aviv and Azul, brought great joy to their lives and are a meaningful part of Ted and Diane’s journey as they grew older together.

Early Life, Education, and Service

Ted attended West Valley High School, where he became a well-known and respected athlete. Nicknamed “Spark Plug,” he was an All-School athlete in football and basketball. After briefly attending college, Ted chose a different path and joined the United States Air National Guard, proudly serving his country in England, where he was stationed guarding the famous Piccadilly Square.

Career and Accomplishments

After completing his military service, Ted returned to Spokane and initially worked with his father at the family hardware store. He was soon approached by a custom home builder, an opportunity that sparked a lifelong career in construction and development.

Ted ultimately ventured out on his own, determined to do things his way. Over the years, he built numerous homes, apartment complexes, grocery stores, and commercial buildings. He developed the Northwood subdivision in Spokane Valley and, alongside his wife Diane, built and managed three hotels.

His legacy extended beyond Spokane. Ted built the Outback Inn at Schweitzer Basin Ski Resort, (still in use today) several of the early condominiums at Schweitzer, and the Chapel at Schweitzer, which continues to serve visitors today. He also constructed one of Sandpoint’s earliest buildings with an elevator, located in what was known as Gunning’s Alley.

Faith and Service

Ted was deeply committed to his faith and lived it out through service. He participated in numerous mission trips to Mexico, helping to build homes, churches, and a retreat center that continues to serve as a hub for ongoing ministry. Ted truly lived as a servant of Jesus Christ, giving generously of his time, resources, and talents for the glory of God.

His favorite Bible verse reflected the foundation of his faith:

“Verily, verily, I say unto you. whoever believes in Me shall have everlasting life.” John 6:47

Ted believed wholeheartedly that salvation comes not by works, but by faith in Jesus.

Life Well Lived

Ted believed in living life fully. He and Diane worked hard and played hard, enjoying motorhomes, boats, a ski condo, a lake place, and extensive travel. Together they explored the world, including two world cruises and many river cruises, often traveling with close friends and creating cherished memories.

In his later years, Ted resided at Rockwood Retirement Community, where he greatly enjoyed the people and the sense of growing old together in fellowship.

Ted will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and a man who cared deeply for others - financially, emotionally, and spiritually.

Services

Viewing

Hazen & Jaeger Funeral Home

1306 N. Pines Road

Spokane Valley, WA 99206

April 17, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Memorial Services

Rockwood Retirement Community

Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 10:30 AM

2850 Rockhurst Lane

Spokane, WA 99223

Redeemer Lutheran Church

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 11:00 AM

S. 3606 Shafer Road

Spokane, WA 99206

Graveside Service

To follow at approximately 2:30

Woodlawn Cemetery

8th Avenue & Thierman Street

Spokane Valley

Memorial Flowers can be sent to Rockwood Retirement center or contributions can be sent in honor of Teds wishes to the Rockwood Memorial Foundation or to Redeemer Lutheran Church mission fund.