Gary Joseph Kartes

Gary Joseph Kartes passed over into his heavenly home on August 10, 2021 after a courageous, two-year battle with prostate cancer. He was born on February 25, 1940, in Langdon, North Dakota to Frank and Olive Kartes. He is survived by his wife Gloria (Winter) Kartes, daughter Nancy Obrigewitsch, daughter Karen (Dave) Piatt, son Phil (Renee) Kartes, and son Steve (Amber) Kartes. He is also survived by his four beloved grandchildren, Josh (Amy) Obrigewitsch, Keetra Kartes, Zoe Kartes, and Hudson Piatt. He is also survived by his brothers, Ben (Marie) Kartes and Lee (Linda) Kartes.

As child number 12 of 15 children, Gary took great pride in his North Dakota farm upbringing and the common sense it instilled that served him throughout his life. He grew up in a log cabin farmhouse in Cavalier County and went to school in Mt. Carmel. He graduated in 1958 and worked for a contractor for one year, building houses. He then joined the Air Force in 1962 and was assigned to an air base in Tokyo, Japan. He was honorably discharged and his patriotism lasted his lifetime. He moved to Seattle and married his true love, Gloria, in 1967. Also in 1967, he became a mail carrier with the United States Postal Service, a job which was perfect for him, given his discipline and heart for service. Upon retirement after 33 years, he worked for Budget Rental Cars and enjoyed driving all kinds of cars all around the city.

Gary had a knack for fixing things and had an impressive collection of tools and gadgets, many of which he obtained from his almost daily visits to local thrift stores. He never met a garage sale or bargain he didn’t like, and proudly passed down his art of the deal to his children and grandchildren. Gary could always be depended upon for lending a helping hand wherever needed. Whatever task needed doing, for his children, family, or friends, he was always first to volunteer his time and energy. His family members were at the center of his heart and he enjoyed countless gatherings for birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions. He was also a man of unwavering faith and trust in God and was a longtime member of St. Bernadette Parish, one block from his home of 54 years, in Burien, WA.

The funeral mass and a celebration of life reception will take place on August 28, 2021 at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, located at 1028 SW 128th St. in Seattle. The Kartes family thanks you for your support and prayers. 

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