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GARTH GLEASON SCHIMELPFENIG
February 21, 1928 ~ March 21, 2017
Garth passed away peacefully March 21, 2017 at the age of 89. He was born Feb. 21, 1928 to Lydia and Moritz Schimelpfenig, in Sara, WA. Garth grew up on the family farm with his sister Meta (1924-2011) and his hardworking parents. He attended Sara Elementary, and graduated in 1946 from Ridgefield High School.
Garth was the first family member to attend college, and graduated in 1951 from Washington State University with a degree in Chemical Engineering.
While he was in school, Garth met JoAnn, and they were married in 1952. Garth and JoAnn were married for 65 years, and had one child, Mary Jo Schimelpfenig (Mark Kelly).
Garth served in the Army, and was stationed in Alabama. He worked for Alcoa for 35 years and retired in 1986. Garth was an avid fan of jazz, and a proud supporter of KMHD. He attended First Presbyterian Church, served on the Grounds Team for years, and was well-known for the delicious cookies he brought every Wednesday to the Men's Coffee Group.
He took excellent care of his family. He loved to garden and the yard shone like a jewel under his care. He will be greatly missed by many.
Viewing will be available Fri., March 31 from noon to 9p.m. at Evergreen Memorial Gardens, 1101 NE 112th Ave. A graveside service will be held Sat., April 1 at 10a.m. at Evergreen Memorial Gardens. The memorial service will be held at 2p.m., Sat., April 1 at First Presbyterian Church, 4300 Main, Vancouver, WA. Reception to follow. Donations may be made to the Memorial Fund (Grounds Team), First Presbyterian Church.
Please sign his Guest Book at www.columbian.com/obits.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Garth was a friend , classmate and we worked at the same plant. He will be missed ! ! !
GENE MUNSON
Classmate
March 15, 2019
Very sorry to hear of your loss. God promises to "bring death to nothing."1 Corinthians 15 :26.May this promise bring you solace at this time of sadness.
April 28, 2017
Garth was a quiet man, but his intelligence, sense of humor, loyalty, and kindness always shone through. He could grow anything, fix anything, and build anything. Growing up with him as our close family friend was a huge gift to my brother and me. Our family trips to the beach together, every summer, are among my all-time favorite memories. Jo Ann and Mary Jo, I am so sorry for your loss--you will continue to be in my thoughts. Susan (Meikle)
Susan Mandell
Friend
April 27, 2017
So sorry to hear about Garth's passing Joann. He was a wonderful man and great friend to my parents for many, many years.
Robyn Tobin
April 10, 2017
Joann and Mary Jo, My condolences to you both on your loss. Garth was always a wonderful neighbor and a lovely man. His kindness and warmth was always evident. His yard that he cared for so diligently was a beautiful jewel that clearly gave him great joy. My prayers are with you both. Eileen (Ojala) Bergevin
Eileen Bergevin
April 5, 2017
My mom and I send our deepest condolences, Thinking of you, JoAnn and Mary Jo.
Donna & Joyce
April 1, 2017
A good man. We were in college together.
Gene Munson
April 1, 2017
Praying for you JoAnn. You had a wonderful long marriage and I know you will be strong during this sad time.
Margie Brown
March 30, 2017
I have really great memories of Garth during the ACPC days. May he RIP.
Pete Richardson
March 30, 2017
My sincere condolences to you, Joann, and to Mary Jo.
Barbara Coppedge
March 29, 2017
We both have many great memories of working with Garth at Alcoa. Thinking of you Joann and Mary Jo.
Tom and Cindi Kane
March 26, 2017
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Funeral services provided by:
Evergreen Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel1101 NE 112th Avenue, Vancouver, WA 98684
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