Gary Weikko Lund

Gary was born on November 27, 1943, in Sitka, Alaska. At age 3, he was adopted by Claire and Weikko Lund of Greenacres, Washington. As a young child, Gary helped his dad with the chicken farm, enjoyed fishing and tinkered with whatever he could find in the barn. Through his teen years, Gary enjoyed school friends from the Central Valley H.S. Class of ’62 and stayed closely connected with them for over 60 years.

In the mid 1980’s, Gary was smitten with a cute young redhead named Vicki Jane who he met in West Seattle. Vicki proved to be an easy catch from the beginning as she had already fallen in love with “the guy who had a twinkle in his eye.” They married on February 14, 1985…a strong marriage to last over 40 years.

In 1991, the Lund’s moved to North Idaho. They worked hard to restore the house of their dreams, and awoke daily always to see the splendor of Lake Coeur d’Alene.

Employed as a Master Mechanic, Gary always did the best for his customers. He was relentless in making certain every vehicle he worked on was fixed to perfection.

But it was all about Classic Cars, it became his hobby to work on them fixing whatever needed fixed, putting every piece and part back together and then finding the car ran better than before. His hobby had become his passion.

In 2008, shortly after he lost his leg, Gary encountered the new venture of nostalgic travel trailers. Within this resurgence Gary hopped onboard. He would buy, restore, and sell these trailers as well as keeping a few for his own. Soon, restoring these trailers became his hearts delight. Gary and Vicki attended many rallies traveling in their own vintage trailer and creating many friendships throughout the United States and Canada.

Gary was always known for his strength, stamina and determination. After losing his leg and recovery had begun, the Doc asked if Gary was a runner to determine which prosthetic would best fit Gary’s lifestyle. Gary’s reply was “Just give me a leg that works because I’ve got cars to fix and livin’ to do!”

Gruff around the edges, he loved to engage with people in conversation. He wanted to know their stories, know their hearts and tell them “Please don’t be a stranger.” In doing so, he created new and lasting friendships. He also made a point to make connections with other amputees, people down on their luck, Veterans, First Responders and more, always offering encouragement and expressing deep appreciation. In addition, Gary was a 44 year member of AA and sponsored a number of men.

Gary was an adoring husband of 40 years, never afraid to empty the dishwasher or vacuum the house claiming he did a better job than Vicki. And she never disagreed!

Both Gary and Vicki treasured their visits to Maui and went as often as they could. And always, made new friends.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Vicki Lund; son Robert Lund; grandsons: Jonathan and Andrew Lund; daughter Ayanna Rosenberg; granddaughter Gaia Rosenberg; cousin Terry Anderson; and a host of lifelong friends made through school, work, and play.

When he passed he died sober with a wrench in his hand underneath his ’51 Fleetline Chevy.

Gary leaves a legacy of love to all…He truly was “one of a kind.”

Private family service will be held.

If desired, donation may be made in Gary’s name to the Veteran’s Charity of your choice.