Larry P. “Butch” Garske, 73, of Rochester, Wash., passed away June 13, 2018, at home with his wife, Cathy, by his side.
He was born April 18, 1945, in Kent, Wash. Butch moved to Grand Mound in 1945, and Lincoln Creek in 1989. He attended Rochester High School.
Butch served in the United States Army from 1963 to 1971. After he was discharged, he worked at Littlerock Lumber on the green chain from 1962 to 1978, West Coast Orient, Fred Moe Logging-Equipment Operator, Dan Sandy- driving truck and running Mighty Saw Mill, Roderick Log Yard- equipment operator, DaPaul Inc- equipment operator from 1983 to 1993, 2 Moon Bay Alaska- equipment operator from 1993 to 1996, DaPaul Chip- equipment operator from 1996 until retiring in 2007.
He will always be remembered for the positive way he touched so many lives and of course his infectious laugh!
Butch enjoyed spending time outdoors, fishing, clam digging and target shooting. He also enjoyed volunteering at the Southwest Washington Fair.
Butch is survived by his wife of 51 years, Cathy Garske; son, Tracy Garske and John Glacken, who he thought of as a son; brother, Chris; nephews, Larry (Rita) Rossow, Dwight (Cindy) Rossow, Roger (Naomi) Rossow, Eric Rossow, Payton Cook and Tyler Powell; nieces, Dawn (Steve) Powell and Trina Hamilton; and sister-in-law, Carolyn Lansing.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Shelly Rossow.
The family would like to send a special thank you to the Hospice staff and Lula Depuw, for all their love and support.
A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m., July 14, 2018, at Swede Hall, 18543 Albany St. SW, Rochester, WA 98579.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local Hospice.
