lifelong Willows resident Gary David Pence died on Friday, October 18, 2024. He was born to Donald and Nadene Pence on January 28, 1951.
He was an honest, hard-working and dedicated man. He graduated from Willows High School in 1969, then attended Shasta College and graduated with an associate’s degree in automotive in 1971.
He worked beside his father at Pence Auto Repair until 1982, when he took over the family business. He continued Pence Auto repair until 1994, when he then started working for a local automotive shop.
He “retired” in 2013.
In 1993, he married the love of his life, Christine. They were happily married until her death in December of 2020.
In his younger years, he was a great athlete, excelling in basketball, baseball, and football. He then enjoyed spending time at his family cabin in Lassen County, bowling, hunting, fishing and his family.
His love for fishing and hunting was something he shared with his children and grandchildren, leaving a mark on them that will never fade.
Meeting nights must also be mentioned. Twice a week, there was a gathering of great friends, where stories were told and laughs were shared.
He looked forward to these meetings until the very end.
His loved ones find comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on through the lessons he taught, the love he shared, and the memories that will be long cherished.
He is survived by his children, Matt Pence, Holly (Dennis) Pool, Latoyia (Miguel) Gonzalez, and Christopher (Deborah) Linnet; brother Dennis (Loretta) Pence; grandchildren Wyatt, Brandy, Maddisen, Danica, Lucy, Jackson, Kimberlynn; great-grandchildren Lydia and Connor; and several nieces and nephews, as well as many friends and extended family members who will miss him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Christine; mother Nadene Pence; father Donald Pence; and brother Richard Pence.
A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, November 2, at “The Garage”.
Arrangements are under the direction of Sweet-Olsen Family Mortuary of Orland.
The Glenn County Observer 