Whitman County Gazette - Serving Whitman County since 1877

Gary A. Feldman, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, peacefully passed away Saturday, December 5, 2020, in Colfax. He was 81 years old.

Gary was born December 13, 1938, to Ray and Vivian (Rice) Feldman. He was raised on the family ranch between Plaza and Rosalia, Washington. When his kids would complain of having to walk up and down Thorn Hill, Dad would say with a twinkle in his eye that it was nothing compared to when he had to walk three miles and how treacherous it was in the snow because it was uphill both ways. He grew up milking cows and taking care of the sheep, as well as working in the fields with his father and brother Sonny. He learned about working hard and working long hours early in life; those traits defined him for the rest of his life. Gary graduated from Rosalia high school where he loved playing football and basketball and was very active in FFA.

He most enjoyed raising and showing sheep. Gary had a love for cars (the louder and faster, the better), and would tell many car related stories that ended with a big smile. He would then remind his children to drive safely and abide by all speed signs. After graduation, he attended Washington State College for one year, and has been a lifetime Coug Fan ever since. He was then drafted into the Army and proudly served his country.

Gary went into business with his brother Sonny opening Feldman Bros. Tire Sales and Service in Rosalia. In 1965, they expanded with a second location in Colfax, where he operated the successful business for the next 25 years. Following "retirement" from the tire business, he continued working, including time at The Grange in Colfax and St. John Hardware.

Throughout his lifetime, Gary loved working with the farmers, though we think he mostly enjoyed visiting with his many farming friends whenever time allowed. Gary was always proud of being active in his community. He served as president of the Colfax Rotary, and so enjoyed his many years involved with the club. He was a longtime member of the Elks Club and held office. For 60 years he was a member of the Masonic Lodge. Other memberships included The American Legion and Peace Lutheran Church. Of all the good in his life, Dad would say without a doubt his greatest source of joy was his family. He was a loving and devoted husband to Dorothy, with whom he celebrated over 55 wonderful years of marriage. Gary/Dad/Poppa will forever be remembered as a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

He is survived by his wife Dorothy in Colfax; his son Todd and wife Diane of Boise; daughter Shana and husband Erik Nielsen; granddaughters, Joslyn and Jillian of Seattle, and son Guy and wife Sonja; and grandsons Collin and Caden of Bellevue. He is also survived by his sister Sandy Gaudette, and 10 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Sonny (Ray) Feldman.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Peace Lutheran Church in Colfax, the ambulance fund at Colfax Fire Department, or Shriner's Hospital for Children in Spokane. Following Covid restrictions, graveside services will be held Friday, December 11th, at 2 p.m., at the Colfax Cemetery with Pastor Ian McMichael officiating. Viewing will be Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday 9 a.m. to Noon at Bruning Funeral Home.

On-line guest book is at http://www.bruningfuneralhome.com