Gary Ernest Tannahill

Gary E. Tannahill, 75, passed away in Gig Harbor, Washington on October 31, 2017 with family by his side.

Gary was born September 3, 1942 in Brooklyn, NY to Orville and Mary Belle Tannahill.  Due to his father’s military career he attended numerous schools throughout the U.S. before settling in Gig Harbor and graduating from Peninsula High School. Upon graduation he joined the Navy, but returned to Gig Harbor after his service where he lived the remainder of his life.  Gary worked as the Public Works Director for the City of Gig Harbor as well as Pierce County Public Works where he retired. Gary was a talented mechanic and engineer. He could build and fix anything. He was also an accomplished gardener and enjoyed creating a parklike setting in his large yard for his grandchildren to enjoy. In addition to spending time with his family, Gary enjoyed morning coffee and going to swap meets with his longtime buddies.

Gary is preceded in death by his wife, Judy Tannahill, his father and stepmother, Orville and Bernice Tannahill, mother, Mary Belle McLaughlin and his brother, Steve Tannahill. He is survived by his sister, Loretta Chamberland, son William (Helen) Tannahill, son James (Jeanette) Tannahill, step-son Michael Uetz and step-daughter Lynn (Andy) Hancock, as well as 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandsons.

Gary was recently able to enjoy his 75th birthday celebrating his life with family and friends in his beloved yard. His ashes will be spread in the water near Carr Inlet and the Fox Island Bridge. In lieu of flowers, his family asks that those wishing to remember Gary plant a flower or tree in his memory.  

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