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Gary Damiano, 84

Patrick Gary Damiano, 84, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, died peacefully in his sleep on July 18, 2018. Gary was born on Aug. 9, 1933, in Kellogg, Idaho, to Patrick Anthony and Jennie (Dimico) Damiano. Gary attended school in Kellogg, graduating in 1951. He continued his education at Washington State College, graduating in 1955 with a Bachelor of Science in pharmacy.

Gary met his wife, Mary Howell Damiano, at Washington State College. They were married on Feb. 12, 1955, in Yakima, Wash. They settled in Kellogg and were blessed with three daughters, Debbie, Susan and Michele.

Gary’s career as a pharmacist spanned 51 years and included ownership of pharmacies and gift stores in Kellogg and Pinehurst, Idaho, and a sporting goods store in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Gary’s Drug Center was a staple in the Silver Valley for many years. Gary served as president of the Idaho State Pharmaceutical Association in 1967 and was honored as Idaho’s recipient of the Bowl of Hygeia Community Service Award in 1991. Gary was also one of the original founders of Jackass Ski Bowl at Silver Mountain in Kellogg. Gary served the Silver Valley as a respected pharmacist, business owner, employer and community leader. He supported many organizations throughout the Silver Valley and Coeur d’Alene during his business career and his community outreach and influence touched many lives over the decades. In 2006, Gary sold his pharmacy to Yoke’s in Kellogg, and was a pharmacy consultant before retiring.

Gary was a member of St. Pius X Catholic Church, serving in many capacities including Finance Council, Columbarium Trust Fund and as an usher. He loved attending Mass and his morning prayer groups with his beloved friends. Gary grew up in an Italian family with a tradition of gardening, and took great pleasure in working in his garden, riding his scooter and spending time on his family homestead in Harrison, Idaho. He was a voracious reader of local history and Italian art and culture, but most importantly, he chose to study God’s word and books that encouraged him to grow spiritually. He appreciated music, especially Italian opera. Gary was fortunate to travel to Italy on several occasions with his immediate family and his cousins and relished the hospitality of his Italian relatives.

Gary served others graciously and placed high value on his relationships with others during his life. He remained hopeful throughout life’s challenges and conveyed hope to those around him. He was kind, encouraging, positive and caring and was adored by everyone.

Our dad was a faithful, protective, loving father and a noble man. He thoroughly enjoyed his grandchildren and had loving relationships with each of them. Dad was an example of Christ’s love here on earth. We cherished our time with him and will miss him deeply.

Gary is survived by his loving family: his wife of 63 years, Mary Howell Damiano; his daughters and sons-in-law, Debbie and Mike Parelius, Susan and Ron Warnecke and Michele and David Roberts; his grandchildren, Patrick Parelius, MaryAnn Warnecke, Joe Warnecke and Gabriela Roberts; his brother and sister-in-law, David and Nona Damiano; sister-in-law, Katherine Damiano Stone; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Pat and Jennie Damiano, and his brother, Harold Damiano.

A Rosary will be held at 5 p.m. on Monday, July 30, 2018, at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 625 E. Haycraft Ave., in Coeur d’Alene, followed by a gathering. A Memorial Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 31, 2018, at St. Pius X Catholic Church with an inurnment and luncheon immediately following.

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Pius X Columbarium Trust Fund or St. Vincent de Paul.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Gary’s online memorial and sign his guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.