Gary Lynn Astells passed away peacefully on Aug. 4, 2022, at his home in Montesano, Washington following a brief illness. He was 71 years old.

Gary was born on Aug. 14, 1950, in Aberdeen, Washington to Fred and Helen Astells. He graduated from Weatherwax High School in 1968. In 1978, he married Rhonda Nagel. They had three sons together and later divorced in 1991.

Gary worked for several local construction companies before settling into a 27-year career with Rognlin’s Construction, retiring in 2012. In retirement, Gary traveled the West Coast of the United States attending a wide variety of boat races that he enjoyed immensely. The car and motorcycle speed races at the Bonneville Salt Flats was a frequent stop on his trips south. His travels took him to many national parks and other tourist attractions.

When he wasn’t traveling, Gary could be found at home tinkering in his shop. Gary’s hobby was manufacturing miniature motors from scratch. Starting with blocks of aluminum, brass and various other metals, he would mill all the engine parts himself. Some of his engines ran on gas, some by steam and others by air. He was truly gifted at turning an intricate set of drawings into a working model. He also built and assembled detailed models of cranes, trucks, boats and airplanes, many of which he proudly displayed in his living room.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Helen Astells. He is survived by his sons, Andrew Astells, Jacob Astells and Matthew Astells, his sister Connie (Larry) McClellan, his brother Greg (Kathi) Astells and his sweetheart Shelly Fairbairn.