Obituary: Gary Buehler, 75, Hood River
Gary Buehler, 75, remembered for his love of family and adventure
Gary Buehler passed away Sept. 21 at the age of 75. He was born April 24, 1951, in Lima, New York, to Karl and Mary Elizabeth “Betty” (Lowe) Buehler.
The family moved from upstate New York to Idaho and Washington before settling in Oregon’s Willamette Valley in 1966. Gary graduated from Stayton High School in 1969 and was an avid skier and adventurer. He married his high school sweetheart, Christine, in 1970.
Gary attended barber school in Salem before moving into carpentry and construction. In 1978, he started his own business, Buehler Carpentry Co. After more than 20 years in the carpentry business, Gary moved from the Willamette Valley to Hood River, where he worked in various occupations, including as a county maintenance supervisor. After retiring, he continued to mentor others, work on projects and keep himself busy.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Karl and Betty, and siblings Bonnie, Karl Jr. and Mari.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Christine (Royse) Buehler of Hood River; daughters Sierra Buehler of Salem and Kristle Buehler of Parkdale; son Logan (Melissa) Buehler of White Salmon, Washington; granddaughters Adelyn Royse and Emarie Grace; and many nieces and nephews.
Spending time with family was important to Gary. After raising his three children, he developed a special bond with his granddaughters, who brought him immense joy. He supported Adelyn and fellow left-hander Emarie by attending their athletic competitions and school events and even joining them on a sailing trip or two.
Gary’s love of adventure and the outdoors began early. As a child, he spent many years on Keuka Lake in upstate New York. When the family lived in Walla Walla, he enjoyed hiking and skiing in Eastern Oregon. During his teenage years, he skied at Mount Bachelor.
Later adventures included working on the family’s 10-acre Echo Hill property, which included building the family home; family ski trips to Hoodoo; camping trips to Big Lake and Diamond Lake; sailing the Columbia River aboard his 27-foot sailboat; and annual visits to a remote fishing village in Mexico over the past 18 years.
Many of Gary’s adventures over the past 55 years included Christine, other family members and friends who became like family. A people person, Gary loved attending local gatherings in Hood River, Ocean Park and Fort Klamath, where he spent his final years.
Gary was a kind soul who was always ready to lend a helping hand. He believed there was a right way, a wrong way and the “Buehler Way.” Whether or not every project got done, he brought light, laughter and boundless love into the lives of those around him. His spirit will live on in the memories of everyone who knew him.
The family thanks everyone who was part of Gary’s life, shared a connection with him and offered support.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
To send flowers or plant a memorial tree, visit Cascade Cremation’s memorial page. To order flowers, visit the online flower store.
