Gary Severin

Gary Severin, 81, passed away July 24, 2022 at his home, surrounded by family. There will be a celebration of life and a retrospective of his art on Saturday, October 8, 2022 from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. at the Eveleth Green Gallery, Gallery One in Ellensburg.

We miss Gary, the man who loved to heal others and was always so generous with his time, whether it was in the arts, with his family, or sharing a kind word or thoughtful observation.

Gary was born on April 3, 1941, the first of 10 children, in Ellensburg, Washington to Frances Graaff and George Bernard Severin. Gary joined the priesthood at 14 years old, attending Saint Edward Seminary in Kenmore, Washington. He became an educator and mentor to many. He taught art, English, and even became a tennis coach so some of his students could form a team.

One of Gary’s greatest attributes was that he always supported those who were less fortunate. He worked in a homeless shelter for battered women in Iowa and continued to support many similar organizations the rest of his life. He felt it was important to speak up for those who could not speak for themselves.

He was an artist in both two and three-dimensional art and was fearless in trying new methods. A large influence for his work were the colors and textures of the desert that he experienced while living in Sedona. He expressed his art through printmaking, sculpture, glass, fiber, wood, wax, and writing screenplays; everything had a story to tell. When he left the priesthood, he became a producer and videographer and wrote and produced documentaries for the Catholic church and their “Real to Reel” program on public television. He traveled to Ghana, Guatemala, Poland and Syria, where he stayed in a Palestinian refugee camp. Those experiences truly changed his life and his view of the world. He had faith in the kindness of the soul and gave people room to grow without judgment.

Gary had a large and loving community that he gave back to. After moving back to Ellensburg, he joined the Gallery One board where he served as a member for nearly 30 years. During that time, he was involved in the renovation of the gallery, giving thoughtful input and direction as president of the board. He also continued his work as a Shiatsu massage therapist, furthering his passion for helping and healing.

Gary and Edie met in 1987 and traveled through Europe together after knowing each other for only three days. What a dashing start to a long and loving marriage; it was so much fun! Kale and Zena, their children, came along shortly after. There were always lots of adventures and laughter, traveling through the Southwest, running away from the snow to southern California, and finding beaches in the family Volkswagen van.

Gary is survived by his wife, Edie Rouleau, and children, Kale and Zena (Marius), as well as his loving brothers and sisters: Pat (Marsha), David (Cynthia), Jane, Donna, Colleen (Dave), Betty, Sally (Dan), Joanne (John), and a bounty of nieces and nephews.

Gary and Edie had a favorite saying, “When two upon a journey go, one sees before the other.”

We are so grateful to have shared in Gary’s life. We love and miss him deeply.

Memorial contributions in Gary’s honor are suggested to Gallery One and their endowment fund, 408 N. Pearl, Ellensburg, WA 98926 or online at https://www.gallery-one.org/give/

Johnston & Williams Funeral Home and Crematory of Ellensburg has been entrusted with caring for Mr. Severin and his family.  Online condolences may be left at www.johnston-williams.com