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Gayle Eldon Shook
08/21/1926 — 02/11/2008
From Kennewick, WA, US | Born in Eureka, Kansas
Gayle Eldon Shook
GAYLE ELDON SHOOK August 21, 1926 - February 11, 2008
Gayle Shook passed away February 11, 2008, at Banner Baywood Hospital in Mesa, Arizona, surrounded by loved ones. Gayle was born August 21, 1926, to Harvey and Nannatte Shoffner Shook on their farm in Eureka, Kansas. He entered the Navy in 1944 and proudly served his country in World War II. Gayle eventually settled in the Tri-City area, where he married his wife Ruth in 1960.
Gayle began his career at Hanford in 1948, where he worked for 40 years in research and development. Gayle developed many lasting friendships with his co-workers and their families. During his youth, he enjoyed racing sport cars, fencing, and calf-roping in the rodeo. He loved water-skiing, gardening, and fishing at the coast for salmon and for perch at Lake O'Sullivan, which was a favorite vacation spot for friends and family. Later in life, Gayle enjoyed golfing, square dancing, silver-smithing, clock making, and the art of wine making, with a preference for our wonderful Washington state wines. After retirement, he and Ruth enjoyed traveling, both at home and abroad. They spent their winters in Arizona where they nurtured old friendships and cultivated new ones. Gayle will be remembered for his adventurous spirit and zest for life.
Gayle is preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Nannatte Shook and siblings, Delores, Manly, Luther, and Paul. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Ruth; son Todd and wife Tina of Ohio, granddaughter Courtney and grandson Nicholas, and brother Wade, and wife Lola and many nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Friday, February 22, 2008, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Einan's Sunset Memorial Gardens, 915 Bypass Hwy, Richland, WA.
A military graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 23, 2008, at Einan’s followed by a 12:00 noon memorial service at the Redeemer Lutheran Church, 520 Thayer Drive, Richland, WA.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice.
Ruth, Todd & family: We are so sorry for your loss. Gayle was a wonderful man and we all have great memories of him throughout the years. Take care.
Dear Ruth,
It was with great sadness that I learned from Marie of Gayle’s passing. I truly enjoyed my visits with him in AZ. He was such a kind, sweet gentleman who was a joy to be around. Enjoyed the margarita parties he had for me and we’ll continue to have them in his memory. I’ll miss so much. May God comfort you during this difficult time.
You’ll be in my prayers.
Will see you again. Take care.
Love,
Florence
Goodbye to the best neighbor we ever had and the best friend Tarb ever knew. We love you Gayle & Ruth and would love to be in touch again.
May God be with you and help you find the strengh to accept his will. My prayers are with you.
Denise
Dearest Ruth and Todd,
As you were my second family growing up, my memories of Mr. Shook are very many and are the fondest that one could imagine. Even though weve not remained in frequent touch over the years, theres not been a week gone by when Ive not thought of you all. As clear as any thought in my head, I have always heard Gayles voice loud and true, full of passion, commitment, and encouragement. I am so thankful to have known him and to have had his influence in my life from an early age.
My prayers are with you and also with Tina, Courtney, and Nicholas. I am so very sorry for your loss.
All of my love, David.
Dear Ruth, Todd and Family:
I’m so sorry to hear of Gayle’s passing. It was truely a blessing to have known him while I was growing up. I have many great memories. May you all find comfort in knowing that Gayle will live on through the many memories of those whose lives he touched. May God bless you!
Love Becky
Dear Ruth: Ray and I extend our sincere sympathy in the loss of your dear husband. We are snowbirding in Mesa and heard the news here. We keep you in our prayers during this trying time. Love Mille and Ray Nierman
All,
I am with you in spirit as you have the services today. As much as Auntie Ruth was “Mom #2”, Uncle Gayle was like a second Dad. He will be missed by many.
I believe he was truly at peace when he passed. I am sorry I am not there today, however am thankful many of us were with Aunt Ruth and Todd in the final days.
Miss you Uncle Gayle,
Love
Cindy
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Gayle Eldon Shook