Gary Lohner

Gary Jay Lohner, 57, of Corvallis died Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2013, at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center. He was born to Johnny G. Lohner and Ella Wigle Lohner on March 24, 1955, in Corvallis. He lived with his parents in Philomath until 1987, when he moved into Benco 17th Street House, where he resided ever since. After receiving a certificate from Crescent Valley High School, Gary worked at the Bonney Workshop, Color Wheel Gardens, the Cornerstone pallet plant, and Hewlett-Packard Co. In recent years he attended Gamut and Grace Center for Adult Day Services. He is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Joyce and John Wooley of Philomath; his nephew and niece by marriage, Mark and Karen Wooley, and their sons Isaac, Gabe and Iain, all of College Station, Texas; aunts; an uncle; and many close cousins and friends. Gary enjoyed participating in Special Olympics, especially skiing, bowling, swimming and, in his early years, track. He had a fondness for country music, “The Lawrence Welk Show” and decorated Christmas trees. He loved going out to dinner and eating white cake for dessert. Attending dances, rearranging furniture, riding his bike, and traveling to the coast were some other of Gary’s pleasures. He was happy when the 17th Street staff would take him to the store for a pop, a book (for its cover) and a paper sack. Gary liked staying overnight with his sister and brother-in-law, and spending time with his nephew and great-nephews. Gary annually attended Upward Bound Camp and would talk about the bunkhouse, fishing, singing, hot dogs and marshmallows. For many years he participated in the ecumenical Christian education program directed by Betty Olleman, held at First Presbyterian Church. After Betty’s retirement, he attended the “My Church” services held Sunday afternoons at the Church of the Nazarene in Philomath. He especially liked to be prayed for and to pray for others. Gary was preceded in death by his mother; father; nephew, Michael Wooley; and many aunts and uncles. Gary could be lovably stubborn, had a good sense of humor, and was a fun and very loving person. He is cherished and will be dearly missed by his family and friends. The family expresses its profound gratitude for the excellent care given Gary in his final days by the intensive care unit at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, and the staff (his other family) at Benco 17th Street House. Viewing is set for 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 8, at McHenry Funeral Home in Corvallis. A memorial service will take place at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 9, at the Episcopal Church of the Good Samaritan at 35th Street and Harrison Boulevard in Corvallis, with interment following at Mt. Union Cemetery in Philomath. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to Benco 17th Street House in care of the funeral home.

Tributes

Gary Lohner

March 24, 1955 - February 5, 2013