Gordon E. Wiltshire

Born in Fort William, Ontario, Canada, Gordy, early in life developed his technical aptitude and artistic talent into a career as a design engineer. His creations include tunneling machines, buses, trailers rigs, logging equipment and aircraft, among many other remarkable projects. Although accomplished as a design engineer, his real success was as a family man. On March 7, 1947, Gordy married his sweetheart, Mary Wright, and together they raised four children: Robert Wiltshire; John Wiltshire (Gabina), of Everett; Bev Wiltshire (Richard); and Barb Cummins, of Bellingham. He is remembered proudly and fondly by his family for his jovial good nature, his kindness, his intellect and his civility—a real gentleman in every sense but with a great sense of humor. In addition to auto mechanics and carpentry, he taught his kids how to play a wide variety of games, although cribbage was his game of choice. Demand for Gordy’s engineering expertise resulted in many relocations and he often made it a family adventure by incorporating camping into the moves—including a full summer tenting in eastern Ontario when he went to work for de Havelland Aircraft in Toronto. The family moved to the Seattle area in the early 1960s after Gordy was recruited and hired by The Boeing Company. He was a lifelong avid sailboater so was able to take advantage of this area’s extensive waterways. He and Mary explored the Salish Sea together on their sailboat for many years. After retirement in 1991, the couple moved to Bellingham to be closer to family and enjoy the natural beauty of Northwest Washington. In his final years, Gordy experienced failing health and Mary provided unwavering devotion and care to the end. He is survived by Mary, his beloved wife of 69 years, his four children, 12 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, and his sister Bernice Robinson of Thunder Bay, Ontario. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herb and Sadie Wiltshire; his brothers Fred and Albert Wiltshire; and his sister Winnie McNaughton. A family celebration of Gordy’s extraordinary life was held Thanksgiving Day at Woodstock Park overlooking Chuckanut Bay. A memorial for extended family and friends is planned for the spring.

Gordon E. Wiltshire

August 17, 1924 - November 10, 2016