Gaylen Gene Chilton

Gaylen Gene Chilton, age 83, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2025. Born on November 28, 1941, Gaylen lived a full and generous life rooted in faith, family, hard work, and service to his community.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Lois (Noble) Chilton. Together they built a strong and loving family, including their three children: Susan Keller (Dave), GayLyn Concienne (Rob), and Michael Chilton (Heather). Gaylen was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren—Jennifer Klei (Reid), Maggie Stewart (Brandon), Elizabeth Tudor (Sean), Jacob Concienne (Emily), Sarah Olmstead (Wes), Tyler Chilton, Cody Chilton, McKenna Chilton, and Brayden Chilton—and 19 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him great joy and pride.

He is also survived by his lifelong friend Dick Krous, and extended family Carolyn (Noble) Kramer, Ron Noble, Paul Noble, as well as two half-sisters, Tracy Done and Terri Mays.

Gaylen was preceded in death by his parents, Lucille (Brumley) Marion and  Gaylen Wolgamott, biological father Chuck Chilton, his brother “Chub” Wolgamott, grandson Jonathan Concienne, Wallace and Hazel Noble, Hank Kramer, and two half-sisters, Tanja (Chilton) Gascon and Tina Chilton.

A lifelong member of the Lutheran Church, Gaylen's faith was a constant throughout his life. He worked in construction during his early years, living in Renton Washington before returning to and settling in the Lower Yakima Valley. He retired from Framatome Nuclear Fuel, where he worked in maintenance.

Gaylen had a passion for classic cars and spent many hours restoring his beloved 1966 Ford Mustang, which he proudly entered in local car shows and parades, earning numerous awards. He also had a deep appreciation for music, especially the country western songs of his youth.

Woodworking was another of Gaylen’s joys. He loved the smell and feel of wood and took great pride in refurbishing antique furniture, gifting many pieces to his children and grandchildren over the years. Known affectionately as “Poppy” and “Coach,” Gaylen made a lasting impact as a youth and high school football coach. He was a passionate Mariners fan, a community leader, and a tireless advocate for those in need. A disciplined and devoted family man, he worked from dawn to dusk to provide and care for those he loved. His playful spirit earned him the title of “Master Aggravator” in the family, always ready with a laugh or a gentle tease.

Gaylen Gene Chilton will be remembered for his strength, humility, and unwavering love for his family and community. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he helped create.

 A memorial will be held in Gaylen’s honor on Saturday June 14, 2025 @ 1pm at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 300 Euclid St., Grandview WA. Those wishing to sign Gaylen’s online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com Smith Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

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