Gary Lee Sutherland

Born in Seattle, WA to Alvan and Everine (Opsand) Sutherland on May 20, 1938, Gary passed away in Bellingham, WA on February 27, 2023.

Gary spent much of his childhood in Seattle until his family moved to live on the farm in Stanwood. He graduated from high school in 1956. Following high school, he attended Seattle Pacific College where he met his beautiful bride when they were assigned seats next to one another in chapel. He soon joined the United States Coast Guard where he received his training as an electronics technician. His time in the Coast Guard solidified a lifelong love of boats and a career in the marine electronics industry. Gary owned and operated a marine electronics business and always enjoyed his work with the fisherman and boaters who were his customers and friends.

In 1960, he married Joyce Rockness and they shared 62 blessed years together. He is survived and will be incredibly missed by his wife, Joyce; children, Laurie (Scott Perry) Sutherland, Jeff Sutherland, Cheryl Sutherland, and Kristy (Brad) McKay; and beloved grandchildren, Nathan, Matthew, Connor, Adison, Austin, Drew, Caleb, and Joshua. Gary was a devoted father and grandfather.

Gary was an avid hiker and mountain climber. He loved the outdoors and especially enjoyed boating and being on the water. He was the ultimate boat driver for anyone who wanted to be towed around the lake. He spent much of his retirement lovingly caring for his grandchildren. He was known for his generous and gentle spirit. He is remembered for his wide definition of family by the many friends and neighbors he has loved and supported as his own.

The great gift he leaves his children and grandchildren is the memory of his faith and commitment to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Memorials can be made in Gary’s name to The Firs (thefirs.org).

A Reception will be held to fellowship and remember on Monday, March 13th from 1-3pm at the Squalicum Boathouse (2600 N Harbor Loop Dr, Bellingham).