Obituary

Gary Gene James, Hyladqw, passed away on July 13, 2023, at the age of 56, in Blaine, Washington. Gary was born to Gerald (GI) and Linda James in Burien, Washington, on February 10, 1967. He was a proud member of the Lummi Nation.

Gary served on the Lummi Nation Police Department for 28 years. He was the Chief of the Police for 8 of those years. Later on, he went to be the Director of Security at the Silver Reef Casino and was there for the last 11 years. But the most important job of all was being a father to his two daughters Amalia and Samantha. Outside of work Gary enjoyed going for walks, thrift shopping, attending car shows and most of all Gary loved to tease and prank everyone.

On Aug. 6, 2015, Gary married his soul mate Karen. They enjoyed many things together but nothing compares to the love they had for each other and their blended family. Gary was a selfless person and would take Karen to concerts and shopping just to see her happy.

Gary is survived by his wife Karen; parents Gerald (GI) and Linda; His Ex-Wife Elisia Gaona; daughters Amalia (Nick) and Samantha (Kyle); Sharlaine (Tino and Ambrose); Jason (Chasity); Granddaughter Jayla; brother David James; God daughters Jeannette (Fred and Heaven) and Sybil (Corey); Niece Serina (Marcos); Nephew Lloyd (Julia) Numerous Aunts, Uncles, Nieces, Nephews, and cousins and their 3 wonderful dogs.

Gary is preceded in death by grandparents Ivan (Sybil) James and Frank (Evelyn) Grosser; Aunt Ladean Lutz