Gary Eugene Kislig, 81

Gary was born Feb. 15, 1936, in Potlatch, Idaho. He passed away on his 81st birthday at Schneidmiller Hospice House in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, as the wonderful caregivers there were singing “Happy Birthday” to him.

Gary was the first born of Walt and Eleanor (Flanigan) Kislig, born in the Potlatch Hospital. He always said his mother got her Valentine one day late.

Following graduation he moved to Moscow, Idaho, and then to Lewiston where he was employed at Pepsi Cola. In 1975, he became a sales representative for Blue Shield of Idaho and retired from the company in 1994. In 1988, he was transferred to Coeur d’Alene to open an office for Blue Shield.

While living in Lewiston, Gary was active in the Elks Lodge and became the Exalted Ruler in 1987 and is a lifetime member of the Lewiston lodge. After moving to Coeur d’Alene, he joined the Commodores of Chamber of Commerce and received the Ed Abbott Memorial Award for outstanding service to the Chamber in 1993.

In retirement, Gary enjoyed golfing, traveling and in later years, playing pinochle with friends at both the Coeur d’Alene and Spokane Valley senior centers. He was known for his hearty laugh, great sense of humor and zest for life.

Gary married Donna Swanson on Oct. 30, 1981, and they recently celebrated their 35th anniversary.

Gary is survived by his wife, Donna; stepson Rich Swanson; brother-in-law Tom Johnson; and many wonderful cousins and friends who will miss him greatly. He is preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Beverly Johnson. He is also survived by two daughters.

At Gary’s request, there will be no services. His family would like to thank the doctors and staff of Kootenai Cancer Center (there are too may to name) for their care and concern for his well-being. And there are no words to express how grateful they are for the staff of Hospice of North Idaho. What a special group of people they are!

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Gary’s memorial and sign his online guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.