Gary Vaughn Wilson Jr., 51

Gary Vaughn Wilson Jr., 51, passed away Tuesday, July 30, 2013, at his home in Missoula of natural causes.

He was born July 28, 1962, in Fairfax, Va., to Gary V. Wilson Sr., and Claudianna Rice Wilson. The family lived in Oakton, Va., until the spring of 1974 when they moved to Montana. Gary attended Frenchtown elementary for a year before the family moved to Alberton, where his family built their home, graduating from Alberton High School in 1982. Growing up in Alberton, Gary participated in 4-H, football and track, lettering in both sports. He helped his family with post and polling, raising horses, chickens, goats and milking the family cow.

After graduating from high school, Gary continued his education at Missoula Vo-Tech, acquiring an auto and diesel technician degree. Upon graduation he started working in the heavy truck and equipment field repair, which he continued through 2000. 

Gary had always wanted to have a business of his own so, in the spring of 2001, he opened Gary's Auto at 243 Catlin Street in Missoula. He was always willing to help anybody.

Gary never married — he had his family and numerous friends that loved him very much. He enjoyed driving his muscle cars, taking trips to Mexico, camping, hunting, golfing and, most importantly, spending time with his family and friends. He loved life and lived it to the fullest. He will be missed tremendously by all who knew and loved him.  

Gary was preceded in death by his mother Claudianna, and his father Gary Sr. 

He is survived by his sister Sara, and Bill Brist, of Kalispell; brother, Brian, and Peggy Wilson, of Alberton; half brother, Sam Wilson, of Alberton; nephews, Kody, Jordan and Mason; nieces, Kyla and Nicole; also his uncles, aunts and numerous cousins. He will be greatly missed by his best friends, Shane, Marsha, Ladd and Tim.  

Gary loved his family and friends more than anything. He made sure that he was at every family gathering and event. He may have left us physically, but, he will forever be with us in our hearts. 

“Goodbye, our brother and best friend, rest in peace.”

A memorial service and celebration of his life will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 25 at the Outdoorsmen Church, 12208 Pulp Mill Road in Frenchtown. A potluck reception will follow.