Gary Lynn Hildebrand

  Gary Lynn Hildebrand, 79, of Pendleton died Tuesday, February 8, 2022 at his home. Gary was born on July 11, 1942 in Hill City, Kansas to Charles and V. Verlyn (Dodd) Hildebrand.
 

     Written by his daughter Trina:

The first 40 years of his life, my dad spent building a military career in the Navy and raising his family. He grew up in The Dalles, Oregon where he met my mother, Gwenda Charlene White. Right after high school they married and he joined the Navy. They had three children together; Lynnda Charlene, affectionately known as Cindi, Trina Lee (myself) and Tabbi Sue Ann.

    Dad was a family man and very involved with us kids. He took us camping, deep sea fishing (on a boat he built himself) and took us for dune buggy rides on the beach. He even became the first male leader of the Girl Scouts in San Diego, County (CA).

    Dad retired from the Navy in 1980 with the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade which was no small feat starting out from boot camp rather than officer school. He spent nearly his entire career in San Diego. After his retirement, he moved back to The Dalles, OR and later relocated to Pendleton, OR where spent the remainder of his life.

     Written by his wife Cynthia: 

     In the final 40 years of his life Gary moved to Pendleton upon meeting his wife Cynthia Protheroe after answering a dating advertisement. He became deeply committed to local programs from substance abuse to public speaking. A close friend said, “He will always be remembered for his  style of leadership and his deep belief that everyone had something positive to contribute to the world.” Gary’s greatest pride was in the men of his Prison Toastmasters clubs around the region.  Gary was an Electrical Inspector and continued working for the City of Pendleton and the CTUIR until his health forced him to retire at age 78.

    Gary is survived by his wife Cynthia Protheroe, sister Cheryl Evans, and daughters Trina Tobey and Tabbi Will.  He was proceeded in death by his parents and his daughter Lynnda “Cindi” Kays. Gary will be buried at sea, an honor bestowed for his 20 year service in the US Navy. Plans for a Memorial Service will be announced later.