Gary Nelson Blevins, 78, died on Nov. 1, 2017, in Oak Harbor. Gary was born on June 23, 1939. He was a native of and 49-year resident of Fort Worth, Texas. In May 1988, Gary and his wife JoAnne moved to the Seattle area, where he worked as an editor with the Boeing Co. With his retirement in November 2000, the couple moved to North Whidbey.

A 1962 graduate of TCU, Gary served two years active duty with the Navy before beginning a writing-editing career with employers that included an electric utility, the state of Texas and Bell Helicopter Textron. The Blevinses met when both were employed at Bell.

After JoAnne was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, the couple left the Texas heat and humidity in order to prolong her life. The move to the Pacific Northwest was a success. JoAnne lived another 24 years, dying on Sept. 21, 2012.

Survivors include stepsons Robert James Anderson (Paula) and Monty Joe Anderson (Emilyn) of Fort Worth; five granddaughters, Debbie, Karen, Robyn, Kelsey and Kayla; and five great-grandchildren, Brooklyn, Josh, Maceo, Mayla and Truman.

Gary loved TCU football, the Seattle Seahawks and Gonzaga basketball. He was a cat lover down to the last little survivor, Liddy.

Gary asked to be cremated with no funeral service.