Gay R. Settles

Gay lost his battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema. He passed away Saturday evening, May 18, 2013, at his home. Seven years ago, Gay was given six months to live, and he fought every minute of every day to stay alive since that ominous death prediction was given. Gay was born on Jan. 17, 1953, in Corvallis to Orval and Joyce Morris Settles. He grew up in Benton County, attending elementary school in Blodgett and graduating from Philomath High School in 1971. Soon after graduation, Gay married Patricia Dwyer. During their four-year marriage, they had a son, Kevin. After their marriage was dissolved, Gay married Sheila Lingel. To this marriage a son, Cody, and daughter, Brandi, were born. During his lifetime, Gay was dedicated to his family and those he called friends. He never turned down anyone who asked for his help, and usually was the person who made the offer. Whether it was his strength or his advice, his tools or equipment, Gay always came through. He was always there for you. Gay worked for Brand S Leading Plywood during the 1970s; the Corvallis School District in the early 1980s; and then Greenberry Tank and Iron until his health forced him to retire seven years ago. In each of these work sites, Gay made lasting friendships that he held close to his heart. Gay often mentioned there were two classes that kept him in high school. Without wood shop and automotive class, he said, he probably never would have graduated. From auto shop, Gay’s love of hotrods was born. From high school on, he always had one in his shop and was working on his own or a friend’s. Even the pickup trucks he drove were not your typical street vehicle. They all had big tires and wheels, lift kits and big engines. Gay leaves to mourn his death his wife, Sheila; daughter, Brandi; son, Kevin and his wife, Shairyl; mother, Joyce; sister, Donna, and her husband, Terry; two brothers, Donn and his wife, Sue, and Gary; granddaughters, Madilyn and Candi; plus numerous sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews. Gay was preceded in death by his son, Cody; father, Orval; and two infant siblings. A memorial service will take place at a future date. Cards and condolences can be sent in care of McHenry Funeral Home.

Tributes

Gay R. Settles

January 27, 1953 - May 18, 2013