Garey Strand

Garey Clarence Strand, 92, died Sept. 28, 2024, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. He was born Nov. 23, 1931, in Rice Lake, Wis., to Clarence and Gladys (Baldwin) Strand. In 1936, his family moved to Oldtown, Idaho, where he grew up and graduated from Newport High School. He was attending college when he was drafted into the U.S. Army in June 1954. He was stationed in Germany as an aircraft and engine mechanic on reconnaissance planes (L-19) and helicopters (H-13). He was honorably discharged in May 1956 after receiving the Army of Occupation Medal (Germany), the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal (sharpshooter). 

Garey married the love of his life, Betty Chaffins, on July 21, 1956, in Coeur d'Alene. He used his GI Bill to study mechanical engineering at Washington State College. He graduated in 1959 with a Bachelor of Science degree and was hired by the Boeing Company. He was a field engineer for all the Minuteman Missile sites throughout the western and mid-western states, requiring his family to move every six months to two years. He spent 34 years working with the missiles, including decommissioning near the end of his career. After retiring, he and Betty returned to North Idaho and lived in a log cabin on 20 acres. 

Garey loved his classic cars, a long ride on his motorcycle and a good pool game. He enjoyed spending time outdoors camping, fishing, hunting and hiking. He was a talented league bowler for many years and never lost a game of Hearts. He was very well traveled having toured the United States, Europe, China, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. He was ready for an adventure with family and friends and was a very proud father of three daughters and loved his three grandchildren. 

He is survived by his sister, Vera (Frank) Pagnotta of Spokane, Wash.; daughters Jane (Gene) O'Meara of Ajo, Ariz., Jill Macchi of Post Falls, Idaho, Tena (Troy) Campbell of Syracuse, Utah; and grandchildren Joshua (Christina) Clementz of Fort Collins, Colo., Jamie Eckardt of Wellsville, Utah, and Montana VanDeWarker of Post Falls, Idaho. Garey was preceded in death by his wife, Betty, his parents, Clarence and Gladys Strand, and his brother, Dale Strand. We would like to thank Cindy and Larry Culum, Crest Hospice and Ivy Court for caring for Garey over the past year. 

A memorial service will be held in Garey's honor Friday, Oct. 4, 2024, at 1 p.m. at the English Funeral Chapel located at 1133 N. Fourth St. in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, followed by a graveside military salute at the Coeur d'Alene Memorial Gardens located at 7315 N. Government Way, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. There will be a reception afterward at the English Funeral Chapel, where light snacks will be served. 

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Alzheimer's Association in honor of Garey Strand.