Harold Gill

Harold "Don" Gill, 93, born to Everett and Alice Gill in Wenatchee WA on August 1, 1921, passed away on July 26, 2015, in Wenatchee, WA. He attended Wenatchee schools, graduating from high school in 1939. He attended Wenatchee Valley College and Edison Technical College in Seattle. During World War II, from 1942-1946, Don was a Navy fighter pilot, flying off the carriers Lexington and Enterprise, in the Pacific Theater. After the War, Don worked as a chauffeur in Florida and then on the family orchard. Later he worked for Wells and Wade in the canvas department, then in the pump and irrigation department. He was well respected in the industry, and many farmers would continue to call him for help and advice after retirement. In the mid 50's he enjoyed building and racing limited hydroplanes, winning many trophies in the US and in Canada. In 1954 he married Phyllis Ann Barnhart, and they made their home on Sleepyhollow Road, where they had 3 children; Elaine Erwert, Ross Gill, and Ann Snyder and remained for most of their 60 years of marriage. His interest in mechanics, engines, and welding kept him busy repairing, building, and creating. His creations were constructed of anything he had saved or found. After retiring from Wells and Wade in 1985, he and Phyllis enjoyed day hikes and travelling to the ocean and desert in their converted van. Often times they would travel with their friends to various Washington and Canadian destinations. He also enjoyed sharing his stories of his Navy flying and hydroplaning days with family and friends, and reconnected with his Navy buddies at many squadron reunions. He is survived by his wife Phyllis Gill, brother Everett L. Gill (Lola), 3 children; Elaine Erwert, Ross Gill (Jeanie), Ann (Chipman) Snyder , and 5 grandchildren; Sarah Gill, Cameron Erwert, Christopher and Randall Chipman , Cory Westlund , and 1 great-grandchild. A memorial service will be held at 11 am on Saturday, August 8, 2015 at Telford's Chapel of the Valley. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Veterans of Foreign Wars- vfwpost3617.org, Confluence Health Home Care, Wenatchee Valley Humane Society or a charity of your choice. Arrangements are by Telford's Chapel of the Valley, East Wenatchee.

Harold Gill

August 1, 1921 - July 26, 2015