Passed February 1 2020 due to cancer-related illness.
Gary was born Aug. 31, 1938 in Port Townsend, Washington to parents William and Nelia (Alexander) Leavitt.
Gary was raised in Quilcene, and throughout his life Jefferson County remained his home, stating it was the most beautiful place in the country.
Gary was preceded in death by parents William and Neila Leavitt, brother LaMoine Leavitt, sisters LaVerle (Leavitt) Ackerman and Wanda (Leavitt) McCone Olin.
Surviving sister Bernice Leavitt Jackson of Davenport, Washington and sister-in-law Evelyn (Gaston) Leavitt of Port Townsend, Washington.
Gary had numerous nephews and nieces that he loved and shared his life with.
Gary attended school in Quilcene, and at 19 headed to Mason City, Iowa to attend the Reisch World Wide Auctioneering School.
After graduating, he pursued a career as an auctioneer. He auctioned at the Quilcene Sale Barn, Enumclaw Livestock Pavillion and Spanaway auction.
Gary loved auctioneering and gave his time for many benefits in his community.
Gary was drafted into the U.S. Army and served from Oct. 31, 1961 to 1963. He was stationed in Fort Lewis and was in field artillery and a truck driver.
As a young boy he helped his dad split fence posts and hop poles and they would haul the truck load to Yakima.
Gary also drove logging trucks working for Earl Woodly, Dick Hughes and Lee Martin.
The woods and hard work were a big part of his life.
Gary loved singing and dancing to the music of the 1950s. Country and rock’n’roll were his favorite.
Gary sang country music on channel 13 TV along with Chubby Howard, Growler Jackson, Judy Kunemay and Marily Mailin.
Gary chose a profession in auctioneering that he loved and many of his friends and family were able to hear his last auction just two weeks ago, before he passed.
Gary loved to travel, stopping anywhere along the way singing country songs for all to enjoy.
He lived a colorful life. He will be greatly missed and remembered with love.
Funeral services will be held Feb. 15 at noon at the Presbyterian Church in Quilcene, burial following at Quilcene cemetery.
A reception follows.
