Gary Lynn Dawes, 69

Gary Lynn Dawes, 69, passed away peacefully on Feb. 19, 2022. Gary was born in Daly City, Calif., on June 26, 1952, to the late Marcella and Robert Dawes. He was the eldest of three children and had two sisters.

Gary met the love the of his life, Arlita Lois (Lynd) Dawes, in San Jose, Calif., over 50 years ago. They started their life together in San Jose, where Gary worked as a mechanic, and raised their five children. They soon moved to Post Falls, Idaho, where Gary continued in the automotive business. As time went on, he achieved many great things.

Family and his doggies were important to Gary as he was always surrounded by them. Friends were also a major part of Gary’s life. He rarely met anyone who would not become one. He shared his enthusiasm for life with everyone he knew and was always willing to listen and help solve problems. He was genuinely interested in everyone he met and was loved and respected by all. He loved a day surrounded by family and friends enjoying a good meal and a rum and Coke while sharing stories or “harassing” his loved ones in jest. He had a nickname for everyone — whether you liked it or not!

Some of Gary’s greatest passions were auto racing, boating, fishing, wine tasting, being an ordained minister, a volunteer fireman for the city of Post Falls and an entrepreneur. He was a successful businessman owning and operating Coeur d'Alene Automotive and Expert Marine Technology. One of his favorite positions in life was being Commodore of the Maverick Yacht Club in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. It was also a very proud moment in his life when he received his captain’s license.

He was proficient with computers and helped many with an issue! Some of his prized possessions were his several Ford Mustangs and his beloved boat, the “Arlita.” He also enjoyed traveling to warm climates with his beautiful wife and friends. His devotion and love to his special needs son, Bradley, was immeasurable.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Arlita Dawes; sister Sonja Hollis; sister Sharon Celentano and her husband, Dave; his son, Scott Dawes and his wife, Kalista; his son, Bradley Dawes; son Michael Schwalbe and his wife, Stacey; and daughter Pamela Neihart. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his son, John Schwalbe, and his parents.

A celebration of life will be held on March 1 at 2 p.m. at Yates Funeral Home in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Please visit Gary’s online memorial and sign his guestbook at yatesfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Tesh Inc, 3327 Industrial Loop, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815. This is a nonprofit organization that empowers youth and adults with disabilities and provides life-changing experiences. In addition, a memorial gift may be made to the Kootenai County Humane Society.