Obituary: Gary Lee Forgey
March 25, 1948 – February 15, 2025
Gary Lee Forgey, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2025, at the age of 76.
Born on March 25, 1948, Gary grew up in Yakima, Washington, where his deep faith and strong work ethic began to take root. After graduating high school, he proudly served in the United States Air Force for four years, a time that helped shape the man he would become—disciplined, humble, and committed to serving others.
Gary went through some hard times but those times helped him to find his greatest passion, ministry. He dedicated 45 years of his life to pastoring, bringing the light of Christ to countless lives through his compassion, wisdom, and unwavering faith. In 2001, he moved to Chesaw, WA. Where he met his beloved wife, Sherry Jonson, and pastored the Chesaw Church before serving at Molson Christian Community Church until his retirement in 2021. His sermons, filled with heart and truth, left a lasting impact on the communities he cherished.
Beyond the pulpit, Gary had a deep love for the outdoors and adventure. In the early 1970s, while living in Alaska, he discovered a passion for dog sledding. He not only built his sleds but also passed down his knowledge and joy for the sport to one of his grandsons, creating cherished memories on snowy trails under wide northern skies.
Gary was a devoted family man. Between him and Sherry, they had six children and were blessed with ten grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He took great pride in each one of them.
Gary is survived by his loving wife, Sherry; his six children; nine grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind three brothers, and a legacy of faith, love, and adventure that will live on in all who knew him.
His life was a testament to service—both to his country and to God. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.
A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at the Molson Grange on Saturday, July 26th at 1 pm, where family, and friends, are invited to honor the man who loved so deeply.
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