Gary Gene Haugen

Gary Gene Haugen, age 87, passed away July 7, 2025, at his home in Moses Lake, Washington. He was born May 22nd 1938 in Culbertson, Montana to Albert and Jessie Haugen and was the youngest of five children. His siblings included Shirley, Bonard, James, and Lyle. When he was in elementary school, his family moved to Chelan, Washington and later moved to Coulee Dam where he graduated high school in 1956.

Upon graduating, he went to work as a lineman for Pacific Northwest Bell. This kept him on the move as he worked in Moses Lake, Port Angeles, and Auburn Washington. He retired from the phone company as a supervisor and went on to work at Boeing until he retired permanently. After his retirement, he spent a lot of his time restoring classic cars, woodworking, and gardening.

He married Gloria Friedlander November 9th, 1957 and had six children: Scott, Stephanie, Steven, Sally, Shanee, and Tim. He was very involved in all of his kid's activities whether that be little league, cub scouts, hunting, or fishing- he did it all.

After separating from Gloria, he met and married Joanne Walthers. His family grew as he was blessed with three stepsons: Kevin, Andy, and Terry. Throughout their marriage, Gary and Joanne enjoyed spending time riding motorcycles, hiking, camping, and boating (Joanne was an excellent water skier!). They traveled extensively and have an amazing collection of photos of all of their travels and breath taking views.

He is preceded in death by his wife Joanne, son Steven, his parents Albert and Jessie Haugen, and siblings Shirley, Bonard, James, and Lyle.

He is remembered and survived by his children: Scott (Jan) Haugen, Stephanie Nelson, Sally Glazier, Shanee Breeze, and Tim (Bonney) Haugen; stepsons: Kevin (Robin) Walthers, Andy (RaeAnn) Walthers, and Terry Walthers; his partner: Molly Moore; as well as numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A celebration of Gary's life will be held August 23rd at the Coulee Dam City Hall at 1:00, food to follow.