Gary Chandler Walrack, 77

Gary Chandler Walrack, passed away at the age of 77 on March 4, 2024. He was a natural entrepreneur, a cherished father, and an unforgettable friend who will forever be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering joie de vivre.

Born on Nov. 1, 1946 to Chandler and Ruth Walrack in Great Falls, Gary entered the world with a spark of curiosity and a zest for life that never faded. Even as a child, his entrepreneurial spirit was unmistakable. He developed a passion for sales and, as a young man, sold everything from pots and pans to motorcycles and jet-skis. Later in life, he established Chandler Communications and used his skills to develop relationships between the public and private sectors, building programs that benefited disabled and elderly individuals throughout Montana without public funding. Following his retirement from Chandler Communications, he formed Intellect Telecommunications Corporation and was preparing for a web-based launch at the time of his passing.

In his personal life, Gary was an avid world traveler who ran with the bulls in Pamplona, Spain, watched Formula One races in Monaco, and enjoyed holidays in France, Hawaii and Thailand. He had a flair for hospitality and a talent for bringing people of all walks of life together at his famous dinner parties, where the jazz music boomed through his home as the champagne bottle was sabered. Gary once led the Northern Montana Film Commission, which promoted northern Montana filming locations to the film industry at the Cannes Film Festival in France and the Hollywood Expo. However, he found his true joy over the years in supporting the non-profits that meant the most to him, including the United Way, Special Olympics, Flathead Industries, and wildlife refuges.

Gary's warmth and charisma knew no bounds. He had a remarkable ability to light up any room he entered, effortlessly captivating those around him with his magnetic personality. His laughter was contagious and his stories were legendary.

He is survived by his esteemed brother and sister-in-law, Dick and Kay Walrack, who stood by his side through thick and thin. He also leaves behind children, Corey Newbill, Chris (Melissa) Lenahan, and Kelsey (Sean) Gummer; grandchildren, Steele Lenahan, Callahan and Vivianna Gummer; nephews, Perry, Kent, Kenny, Ron and Scott; nieces, Cindy, Dori, Christy and Linda; twelve great nieces and nephews, and ten great-great nieces and nephews.

The world feels a little dimmer in the wake of Gary's passing, having lost his radiant smile. His spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched, and his memory will remain a beacon of light in the minds of all who knew him.

Services to honor and celebrate Gary's life will be held at 1 p.m. on April 13, at Croxford Funeral Home in Great Falls. Viewing to begin at noon. Reception to follow service at Croxford. Burial at 4:30 p.m. at Highland Cemetery.