Gary B. Alkire

Gary B. Alkire June 14, 1945 July 31, 2017 Lyons, Oregon Gary B. Alkire, 72 of Lyons, Oregon passed away peacefully at his home on Monday July 31,2017 with family by his side.  Born in Berkeley California to Walter H. Alkire and Genevieve H. Baxter.  Gary was a passionate man who enjoyed fishing, hunting and camping. He especially enjoyed fixing and rebuilding cars. Gary was a loving father who was admired and loved by his entire family. His list of friends remains endless.  Gary is survived by his wife Josie of 24 years, daughter Nichole (Jim) Hewell, siblings Marjorie (Bill) Anderson, Carolyn (Joe) Huff and Phil (Diana) Read.  Nieces/Nephews Mindi (Jim) Wilson, Hannah (Ty) Drake and Nicholas, stepdaughter/son Sara Antillon, John Hitchcock, step granddaughter Gracie Hernandez.   Gary attended North Salem High School. Upon graduation he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served in Vietnam. Among his military decorations  were the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal and Army Commendation Medal with device. Upon completing his military obligation  he attended Northrup Aeronautical Institute in Inglewood, California. There he received his Associate of Science degree and Federal Aviation Agency; airframes and power-plant mechanics license in 1968.  Gary married and had a daughter Nichole in 1969. The family moved to Jacksonville, Oregon in late 1969 Gary began work with Command Helicopters in which he worked with the Kaman H43 Huskie. In 1972 he and his family moved to Salem. Oregon where he worked at Salem Brake and Wheel until 1976 when he joined the Oregon Army National Guard. In 1990 Gary and family made Lyons, Oregon home until his death. Gary was always a country boy and loved being out of the big city. He continued working until 2007 when he retired from the Oregon Army National Guard. Gary received the Exceptional Service Medal, Certificate of Commendation and Certificate of Appreciation for service in the guard. Gary always kept himself busy after retirement. He would teach the (hoisting class) which was held mostly in Diamond Bar, California. At times classes would be held at Gowen Field in Boise, Idaho. Gary also served his local community by running for councilman in Lyons (2013-2014). He served as the commissioner for the library and safety board and was the Lyons-Mehama water district liaison.  You may make a donation to the American Cancer Society in Garys name in lieu of flowers. Arrangements by Weddle Funeral Services.