Gary Fredrick Chambers Obituary (1940 - 2026)

Gary Fredrick Chambers, born May 15, 1940, in Yakima, Washington, passed away on August 28, 2026, surrounded by his loving daughters, Courtney and Morgan. As a young boy, Gary lived and went to school in Renton, Washington. He spent his summers in Toppenish, Washington, where he learned the ropes of the family business, alongside his father and grandfather. The family established a successful cattle ranch as well as the Toppenish Sales Yard (est. 1935). Gary went on to graduate from the University of Washington, where he was a member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon (DKE) fraternity. Gary began his career as an investment banker with People’s National Bank in Seattle. In 1966, he moved to the Yakima Valley to work as a stockbroker for Walston & Co. In 1973, he left the brokerage firm to join the Von Horst Co., as a sales manager. In August 1983, together with four U.S. hop producers, Gary purchased the company. The company’s name was changed to Western Hop Co. Inc., and Gary took the helm as President. As an international hop dealer for many years, he traveled the world extensively. His passport was proof of that; it had so many stamps that it needed additional pages! Gary’s hobbies included skiing, golfing, traveling, and boating. Gary loved dogs and they loved him even more. He also loved beautiful cars. Always driving the latest model and pridefully selling it cleaner than he bought it. He was an active member of several clubs, including Allied Arts, the Yakima Sundusters, Country Club, Tennis Club, 9 O’Clock Club, and the Washington Athletic Club. Movie-star handsome and always dressed to perfection, Gary was notoriously known for his “half cowboy, half business” attire. His professional wardrobe was famously defined by Brooks Brothers shirts, striped ties, and navy suits. However, he was equally at home in his signature cowboy boots, belt buckle, and Levi’s jeans. At the age of 50, Gary suffered a debilitating stroke that left him unable to read, write, or verbally communicate. For 36 years, his determination and strong will allowed him to maintain an amazing amount of independence. Above all, Gary loved his family deeply. He is survived by his cherished daughters, Morgan (Adam) Dolsen, and Courtney (Frank) Frame, his adored grandchildren, Mack Dolsen, Ellie Dolsen, Sophia Dolsen, Max Frame, and Tommy Frame, his half-brother, James Moffat, and his former wife and friend, Evelyn Chambers. He is preceded in death by his best friend, Cameron Hopkins, half-brother, Marshal Moffat, parents, Beatrice (Robert) Moffat and Joseph H. “Rusty” Chambers. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the wonderful caregivers at the Terraces and Highgate Senior Living, who cared for our dad with such compassion, patience, and loving kindness. Their warmth, dedication, and genuine care brought him comfort and dignity and gave our family great reassurance during his time with them. We will always be deeply grateful for the kindness and respect they showed him. A Private Graveside Service will be held at Terrace Heights Memorial Park. Brookside Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com.