The good Lord called Homer Vincent Gage home to heaven on Jan. 30, 2021. He was born in Hoquiam, Washington, in April of 1929 to Vincent and Agnes (Dompierre) Gage. He grew up on Queets Avenue with sisters Eva and Ariel.
He passed from chronic health issues at the Gulke Manor in Montesano where he has resided with his wife, Jeanette, for the last several months. The family thanks the entire staff of Gulke Manor for their patient and loving care of Homer these last few months of his life.
Homer was proud product of Hoquiam schools, Washington Elementary, Hoquiam Middle School and the “old” Hoquiam High School located at the corner of Emerson and Garfield in Hoquiam. All through his school years Homer was active in student government serving as class president for many of his school years.
After graduating from HHS in 1948, he went to work for ITT Rayonier in the Timber Division serving in various positions ending as safety supervisor in 1963. In 1963, Homer was nominated by the Grays Harbir Democratic Party to serve as postmaster and was subsequently appointed by President John F. Kennedy to the post. He relished in being the last politically appointed postmaster in the Hoquiam office. Homer finished his service as postmaster 26 years later in 1989.
Homer loved his family and his community. He was a proud American, a devout Hoquiamite and a lifelong Democrat. In his frequent visits to medical facilities included a thorough questioning of staff about their background, schooling and political preferences. He was not bashful about sharing his opinions up to the end of his long life.
Homer is fondly remembered for his daily walks around Hoquiam’s west end as the unofficial yard inspector. For many years he and his wife were regulars at Hoquiam City Council meetings advocating for civic pride and city improvements. Homer was an active member of the Hoquiam Eagles, Elks and Kiwanis before his retirement.
In 1953, Homer began what would become a 67-year marriage to the love of his life, Jeanette Stusser. They had three children: Vincent (Angie) of Humptulips, Frank (Cheryl) of Hoquiam and Julie (Gary) of Hoquiam. They were also blessed with six grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and several “bonus” grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Homer considered his extended family to be his greatest accomplishment.
A private urn committal will be at Hoquiam’s Sunset Memorial Park when it is safe to gather family together.
Cremation arrangements are by the Coleman Mortuary in Hoquiam.
Please take a few moments to record your thoughts for the family by signing the on-line register at www.colemanmortuary.net.
