Gary VandeVenter

August 5, 1938 to July 19, 2023

Gary Thomas VandeVenter passed away living his life, how he always has, to the fullest and with determination. He believed there are three types of people in this world, those who watch things happen, let things happen, and make things happen. Gary always found a way to make things happen.

He was born Aug. 5, 1938, in Des Moines, Iowa to Arnold T. VandeVenter and Florine K. (Schrodt) VandeVenter. On July 19, 2023, he reunited with them and his younger brother, Larry VandeVenter, and many close family and friends.

Gary graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1955 and enlisted in the Air Force where he was stationed at Fairchild AFB in Spokane, Wash., and then shipped out to Goose Bay Labrador where he worked in accounting/finance. He later graduated from Grand View Junior College in Des Moines and was assistant editor of the school newspaper. After college he returned to the Pacific Northwest. He met the love of his life, Patsy Strock, on a blind date and they married in 1966 in Olympia, Wash. Their daughter, Kasey, was born in 1968. They moved to Oregon in 1970 and moved into their forever home in Garden Home in 1973.

Gary worked for Budget Finance, Associates, and Crown Zellerbach FCU until he was hired as the CEO of NW Farmers Insurance Group FCU (now, NW Preferred FCU) in 1976 and retired in 1996. He was a mover and a shaker in the Credit Union Movement, being instrumental in creating Automated Item Management. He was one of the first chairs of the OR & SW WA Credit Unions for Kids, helping to bring the program nationally through Children’s Miracle Network. His credit union was the first to offer online banking, assisting other credit unions to offer this service. Every decision he made was about the member.

He and Patsy enjoyed years traveling the world and exploring the U.S. He was a devoted and engaged grandfather to his only grandson, Tyler, attending every sports practice and game over 10 years. Gary enjoyed years of golf and many fishing trips. Every summer he drove out to the country to buy corn for friends and family. Growing up in Iowa he loved corn season. Gary is a beloved husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, and friend to many. He cherished the lifelong friendships he made throughout his life.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Patsy; daughter, Kasey Rockwell; son-in-law, Travis; grandson, Tyler; and several cousins.

A private ceremony was held at Willamette National Cemetery. His Celebration of Life “Party” will be at The Stockpot Broiler, Oct. 21, 2023.

Contributions to OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, Oregon Wildlife Foundation or Kaiser Permanente Hospice in Gary’s memory are welcomed.