Gaylord S. Thomson

November 16, 1923 - February 02, 2010

Gaylord S. Thomson Obituary On February 2, 2010 this earth lost one very special soul. Gay was born November 16, 1923 to Clarence and Esther Thomson in Denver, CO. He celebrated his 18th birthday exactly three weeks before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, and subsequently served two tours with the Marine Corps in the South Pacific. He served principally in French Samoa (Wallis Island) and the Gilbert Islands (Apamama) as part of the 8th Defense Battalion and the 2nd Marine Division. When he returned home he enrolled at the University of Denver and became a proud member of the SAE fraternity where he made many life-long friends. He graduated in 1950 and later was recalled to active duty by the Marines during the Korean War. Gay began his career as a YMCA professional in camping and boy's work in 1950, following his Father's example. He continued on that path for 42 years, serving YMCA's in Illinois, Oregon, Arizona, Minnesota and Texas before coming to Spokane in 1982. He served as the Director of Camping Services for the YMCA of the Inland Northwest until his retirement in 1991. During his professional career Gay wore many hats, but his two favorite programs (aside from camping) were HI-Y and Indian Guides (where he was known as "Sitting Duck"). Throughout his military service and professional career his inspiration and "guiding light" was his father. His choice of military branch, professional occupation and personal standards were inspired by Clarence Thomson. Following retirement Gay volunteered through the RSVP program. He served in several capacities at the downtown YMCA and was an active participant in the RSVP's fund-raising activities. In his spare time he enjoyed cooking, reading, woodworking, and especially stained glass. Gay is survived by his younger sister Mary Lou, his three children Curt, Angela and Griff, and his three grandchildren Andrew, Morgan and Bryson. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at the Heritage Funeral Home at 11:00am Monday February 8th, 2010. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to YMCA Camp Reed.