‘Pat’ (Donald) Gaskill
February 25, 1933 - April 3, 2023

He passed away peacefully to be with the Lord at the age of 90. His 90th birthday was celebrated with a wonderful party. It was a special day for him and he enjoyed it so much.

He was born in Iowa but made his permanent home in Humboldt County in the late 1950s. He met the love of his life, June, and they were married 55 years.

He served in the military during the Korean War and was stationed in Washington state. He was a logging truck driver and worked for numerous trucking companies throughout the years and Louisiana Pacific Mill for five years. Truckers knew him as “Squirrel” and “Big Hands Pat.” Anyone who met him and shook his hand could not get over the size of his hands, hence the nickname.

He and mom were members of Redwood Vintage Rods for many years. He loved his fast cars and street rods. They were also in the Redwood Country Kickers Dance Club. He was a big man but was so light on his feet and a great dancer. He could sure “cut a rug” with mom. Also a member of the Elks Club.

Dad was a loving husband, father,  grandfather,  great-grandfather, brother in-law and uncle. He was very proud of all his family and loved them wholeheartedly and this includes his brother (from another mother) Doug Gingerich. His coffee shop buddies were special to him also.

He is survived by his wife, June, children Leanne (Jeff) Johnson, Ron Harvey, Patricia Murray Frady, Pamela Nicholas, brother-in-laws, sister-in-laws, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Pat was preceded in death by Margaret Acorn (mother), Ralph Johnson (father) and Peggy Gaskill Sloan (daughter).

There will be a casual gathering of friends and family Sunday, April 23 from 2 to 4 p.m. at 2134 Hodgson St., Eureka.

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