Dan Richard Stilson

Dan Richard Stilson passed away August 14, 2019, after a long illness with COPD.  He was born January 9, 1958, in Colfax, WA to Laura and Dan W. Stilson.  He grew up in Pomeroy where he was the livewire of the sibling group (David, Susan, Jeanne ad Robert).  He played baseball and, since age 9, worked fulltime alongside mom and dad at Stilson Meats.  He was especially good at “recruiting” his friends to help when he had to load the frozen meat lockers.

In 1974 Stilson Meats relocated and the family moved to Lewiston, ID where Dan graduated.  He became head meat cutter until it sold in 1983.

He married the love of his life, Gayle Lea Johnson, December 17, 1976.  First son, Adam Wesley arrived May 22, 1979, followed by Dustin Lee, February 10, 1983.  A sweet red headed girl, Lindsey Jo, followed December 18, 1986.

In 1987, Dan went to work for Albertson’s in Walla Walla as Meat Manager where he spent the rest of his working days.  He loved his job and took pride in putting together a beautiful meat case for customers.  He loved the Seahawks, Mariners and Atlanta Braves and playing and hosting poker parties.  He passed along his card playing skills to his kids around the kitchen table.  The last year of his life he moved in with his daughter’s family and cherished time spent with them.

Dan is survived by his parents; four siblings, three children, grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.  He especially cherished his grandkids and always had a treat waiting.  Dan went to rest with his wife, Gayle, who preceded him in death.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Lewiston, ID at a later date; and in Walla Walla at the Getaway on September 7, 2019 at 9:00 AM.  Memorial Contributions may be made in his memory to Walla Walla Community Hospice in honor of the compassionate care he received.