Gary passed April 24, 2025, leaving behind a trail of cherished memories. Born in Tacoma, Gary grew up in a typical 1950s neighborhood, surrounded by friends and family. He spent his days playing ball in the intersection with the drainage grates as the bases, football on the grassy island dividing Union Street, biking and playing combat. Hiking in the Olympic Mountains with his dad, brothers, and always a friend or cousin by his side, Gary’s childhood was filled with adventure and love. Camping trips, swimming in the Hood Canal, and visiting his relatives, the Huntingfords in Jefferson County were all part of his exciting escapades.
Gary’s close bond with his childhood friends from Tacoma endured throughout his life, especially with his best friend since early childhood, Dan Cormany. Despite the challenges of moving to Mercer Island in 1967 when his father was transferred to Seattle, Gary’s true nature shone through as he quickly made new friends and maintained lifelong connections with many of his childhood pals.
Gary’s career took off in the hospitality industry, starting at a young age at the Seattle Hilton. He began as a bellman, eventually becoming the night auditor. During his time as a bellman, he had the privilege of carrying Priscilla Presley’s luggage and furs and even secured front-row seats to Elvis Presley’s concert for his efforts. One memorable incident involved Chuck Berry, who was staying at the hotel and asked for directions to I-5. Gary, always ready to help, hopped into his VW bug and guided him to the highway.
In the early 1970s Gary moved to Port Ludlow and continued his career, working the front desk and auditing the resort’s books. He also joined the Port Ludlow volunteer Fire Dept. and really enjoyed driving the fire trucks.
The company that managed Port Ludlow Resort sent him to Sun Valley to help open a new resort there. After helping get that business up and running he returned to the Olympic Peninsula.
Gary also worked for many years at Carl’s Building Supply, doing office work. He really enjoyed working with the Johnson family and especially admired Carl Johnson.
He moved on and back to his passion, hospitality, working at the Palace Hotel for many years as the manager and eventually retired from there. Gary loved meeting and talking with people, and the Palace Hotel was perfect for that. As many would say, Gary was a great boss to work for. I remember him turning down his own bonus and giving it to the hardworking Housekeepers. If someone needed a ride to work, Gary was there for them, even if that was from Quilcene.
Gary and his high school sweetheart, Shelley Mickelson, reunited and spent the last 34 years together. After Gary retired, He & Shelley enjoyed traveling and camping in their RV and walking their dog Louie throughout the neighborhood and chatting with the neighbors.
Shelley was Gary’s caregiver until the end, and the family will be forever grateful for her loving care. They truly loved each other.
Gary was a friend to everyone. It didn’t matter who he was talking to; he always listened, asked all sorts of questions, and was genuinely interested. He was selfless and so kind. He made everyone feel like they were interesting and heard. He never passed judgment. He had a way of keeping things lighthearted yet so authentic. He embodied so many traits that are rare and were just who he was.
I don’t think he ever met a “paw” he didn’t love, or whose name and story he didn’t remember. To know Gary at all was to also know his love for dogs. And they loved him too; how could they not?
Gary is preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Frances Schweizer.
Gary is survived by his lifelong partner, Shelley Mickelson, and stepson, Ryan. Brothers, Kurt {Terri} and Bill, nieces, nephews and many cousins and his beloved canine, Louie.
Gary’s life was a testament to his resilience, kindness, and unwavering loyalty. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
