Obituary of Gary Lee Stillwell

Gary Stillwell passed away Sunday, March 27, 2011 in Ione at the age of 76 years with his adoring family by his side. He was born September 22, 1934 to Harold and Betty (Gillaspie) Stillwell in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. He was raised in Kansas and after graduating high school joined the U.S. Army. Gary and his high school sweetheart, Sarah Jacobson were married February 27, 1956 while Gary was on leave. The couple owned a farm in Winchester, KS for several years. Their children loved life on the farm and so did Gary but after about 8 years it was time to move. In 1975 Gary moved his family to Pleasanton, California where he opened a store, Furniture on Main, in downtown Pleasanton. Later he started a Landscape Architect business. Gary and Sarah had made Pleasanton their home for so many years because of its mountains and landscape. In 2002 Gary was ready to retire and sold his landscape business, he and Sarah moved to Ione, enjoying its country beauty. Gary was an honest man who required honesty and respect from those around him, especially his children. He had a gregarious personality and amazing zest for life and love. Gary had fought cancer three different times in his adult life, beating all the odds. He was a natural born fighter. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Sarah; children, Gregory Stillwell and wife, Sandra of Sacramento, Sheri Cardadeiro and husband, Nelson of Tracy, Jeffrey Stillwell of Lathrop; brothers, Bill DuPree of California, Dick DuPree and wife, Char of Texas; sister, Dara Ulibarri of Arizona; grandchildren, Danielle, Brandon, Chantelle, Zachary, Dustin and great grandson, Cory. He was preceded by his son, Gary Stillwell, II in 2005. He is also survived by a loving extended family and close friends. The family also thanks the wonderful Oncology staff at Mather VA Medical Center for their love and support. At his request there will be private family services only. Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, 1765 Challenge Way, Suite 115, Sacramento, CA 95815 or Hospice of Amador and Calaveras Counties, P.O. Box 595, Jackson, CA 95642.