Gary Charles McWilliams, 70

Gary Charles McWilliams, 70, of Smelterville, Idaho, went to be with the Lord on March 10, 2024, at Shoshone Medical Center in Kellogg, Idaho. Gary was born Aug. 27, 1953, in Rochester, Pa., son of the late Edwin and Jacqueline (Charles) McWilliams. 

Gary grew up in Rochester, Pa., where his closest friends and family knew him as Mac. He was also nicknamed Popeye for his resemblance and sheer strength. During his young adulthood, he worked in the steel mill. Growing up near Pittsburgh, he became an avid, lifelong Steeler fan. 

Gary followed his brother, Dan, from Pennsylvania to the Silver Valley, where they began their construction company, McWilliams Construction. He built a beautiful home in Cataldo, Idaho, where he raised his family. Gary was a skilled carpenter well-known for his true artisanal craftsmanship and master of procrastination, but always worth the wait. 

A lover of music, Gary enjoyed karaoke, dancing and mineral soaks at Quinn's Hot Springs. Gary was a 50-year member of the Elks Club, holding membership at Rochester, Pa., and the Wallace, Idaho, lodges.

In addition to his parents, Gary is preceded in death by his brother, Daniel “Dan” McWilliams. 

He is survived by his three daughters, Sara (Scott) Hogamier of Osburn, Idaho, Robin (Darren) Hei of Pinehurst, Idaho, and Ashley (Mike) VanHoose of Kingston, Idaho; grandchildren Madison (Travis) Newell, Hayden (Hannah) Hogamier, Jarrett (Dexter) Hei, Wyatt Hei, Elliott Hei, Clarett Hei, Erin (Chase) Jerome, Ally VanHoose, and Mike Vanhoose and great-grandchildren Millie Hogamier, Svea Newell, Maizie Tinajero, and Oliver Hei; three sisters Sam McWilliams, Jackie Anthony and Janie Cosky; and his longtime loving companion, Sunni Reed of Osburn, Idaho. 

Private family burial services were held at Hunt Cemetery in Kingston, Idaho. 

Donations in Gary’s memory may be made to the Shoshone Cancer Resource Center, P.O. Box 261, Kellogg, ID 83837.

Memories of Gary and messages of condolence may be shared with his family online at www.shoshonefuneralservice.com. Shoshone Funeral Services, Kellogg, is assisting the McWilliams family with arrangements.  

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.