Gary Jutte

Gary A Jutte, 69,passed away after a long, courageous, brave fight on Monday February 13, 2017, (just two days before his 70th Birthday), surrounded by his family, at Tacoma General Hospital. 

Gary was born February 15, 1947 to Alfred and Louise Jutte in University Place, WA where he spent his childhood, graduating from Curtis High School in 1965.  Following graduation Gary joined the Air Force and stationed Hellenikon Air Base in Athens, Greece where he met and married Betty, his wonderful, loving wife, of 45 years.  After his service in the Air Force he and Betty returned to the Pacific Northwest and he began his career of 30 years at the PSNS.  The couple started a family and eventually settled and built a home in Port Orchard, where they have resided for almost 40 years. 

Gary very much loved the great outdoors, traveling, camping (in his 5th wheel), fishing, raising chickens and spending time with friends and family. While he claimed to love hunting, he would return empty handed each time and it is our belief that his heart would not allow him to hurt any living creature.    He very much enjoyed Maui and all the island has to offer, visiting 22 times over the past three decades.  He especially enjoyed the long morning walks he would share with his wife, along the sandy beaches. We feel especially blessed that he was able to fulfill his number one bucket list item of visiting Dick Proenneke’s Cabin in Twin Lakes, Alaska.  A living memorial will be planted near the cabin where his memory and happiness will live on thru eternity.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Al and Louise, and his nephew, Craig Helmholz.  He will continue to live on thru the memories of his loving family and dear friends.  He is survived by his devoted wife Betty Jutte, Son Alan (Jennifer) Jutte, Daughter Lindsey Jutte Grier, the three grandchildren Gavin Grier, Kendall Grier and Isla Jutte as well as his brother and sisters, Robert Jutte, Don Jutte, Kathy Jutte, Carol (Steve) Helmholz, Dwaine Jutte and Patrick (Judy) Jutte, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews and other extended family. 

Many heart felt thank yous to all of those who supported Gary and his family during his brave fight. A celebration of his life will be held in his honor at 2:00 pm- March 4th at The Clubhouse at McCormick Woods: 5155 McCormick Woods Drive SW - Port Orchard, WA 98367. Online condolences can be left on Gary Jutte Tribute Page at havenrest.com.  In lieu of flowers, we encourage memorial donations in his honor to:

Friends of Dick Proenneke and Lake Clark National Park, 66161 S. Mt. Wickersham Dr., Sutton, AK  99674

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