Gerrit "Gary" Weenink

Gerrit (Gary) Hendrik Weenink went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ while surrounded by his family on Thursday, October 10, 2024.

Gary was born on May 9, 1957, in Yakima, Washington to Hank and Greta Weenink.  Gary was raised on a dairy in Sunnyside, along with his brothers and sisters.  Third of six children, he was mischievous and had a vivid imagination.  He was a bit of a daredevil and a lot of a troublemaker, causing plenty of headaches for his parents and laughter for his siblings. 

Gary met his future bride, Jamie (Smith), for the second time in high school.  They met once prior when they were newborns as their mothers shared a hospital room after they were born, only four hours apart.  The high school sweethearts married in 1976 and built their family in Sunnyside.  A daughter, Jennifer, and son, Nigel rounded out the family.  Gary worked for Star Trailers, building transport trailers for 27 years before an injury forced his retirement.  He loved his family fiercely, second only to his love of God.  His brothers Joe, Rick, and Ed and sisters Betty and Jane were especially dear to his heart.  His children were his pride and joy, and always a good source of laughter and maybe a little stress.  And his wife Jamie was the love of his life.  They spent 50 years together and while there were plenty of times of good & bad, rich & poor, and sickness & health, they were always the greatest team. 

A classic dutchman, stubborn and cheap, Gary had a strong will and knew how to find a deal.  He was the kindest of souls and was quiet, yet incredibly strong.    He loved aviation, music, taking pictures, tinkering, road trips, camping, and other outdoor sports like riding ATVs and snowmobiles.  He especially loved doing these things with his family and dogs.  You’d often find him rocking out to music always turned up to 11, sneaking photos of anyone who held still long enough, and working on endless projects.  He loved experiencing God’s creation by spending time exploring the outdoors.  Gary passed on his love of music, the outdoors, and countless other things to his children.  But most importantly he demonstrated the love of God for all his family and friends. 

Gary is survived by his wife Jamie, daughter Jennifer (Nick) Ortiz, son Nigel (Kim) Weenink, brothers Rick (Diana) Weenink and Ed (Tammy) Weenink, sisters Betty (Dave) Thompson and Jane (Max) Stafford, honorary grandson Harley, numerous nieces and nephews, many close friends, and his beloved dog Tikka.  He is preceded in death by his father and mother, brother Joe, father-in-law Jim, mother-in-law Carol, brother-in-law Kirk, niece Crystal, and several cherished dogs. 

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at 11 am, at the Neighborhood Church located at 385 E Allen Road in Sunnyside.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Through the Word or Convoy of Hope.

Those wishing to sign Gary's online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com   Smith Funeral Home is in care of arrangements. 

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