Gary Sullivan

Obituary Judge Gary Sullivan Retired Tacoma Municipal Court Judge Gary Sullivan, 72, passed away unexpectedly at his home on November 28, 2005 as a result of a massive heart attack. Born November 1, 1933 in Buffalo, NY, Gary graduated from Bishop Timon High School then attended Siena College. After completing four years of service in the United States Air Force, he went on to earn his Doctor of Law Degree from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. Gary started his legal career with the Attorney General's office then moved to the City of Tacoma as an Assistant City Attorney. He later became a partner in a law firm with lifelong friends Al Overland and Herb Gelman. While in private practice, he was recruited by the City of Tacoma to head the Department of Urban Renewal. His continued service with the City of Tacoma included Director of Community Development, 9 years as the Hearings Examiner, and 16 years as Municipal Court Judge. Gary's appointment as Municipal Court Judge fulfilled a lifelong dream that allowed him to positively impact many lives. In addition to City service, he also taught Business Law for several years at Tacoma Community College and the University of Puget Sound. The biggest joy of his life was time spent with his family. Survivors include his cherished and devoted wife Vicki; his five children Colleen (Dan) McCann, Shelley (John) Holder, Sean (Melanie), Mark (Grace), and Danny (Kim); sisters Gail (Jack) Carey, Carol Sullivan, and brother Mark; nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by Marylyn, his wife of 42 years and his father Gerald and mother Ethel. Funeral Mass will be celebrated, Tuesday, December 6, 2005 at 11:00 am, at Holy Disciples Parish, 10425 - 187th St. East, Puyallup, WA. Please leave on-line condolences at: www.gaffneyfuneralhome.com . Family suggests memorials be made to American Heart Association or Holy Disciples Building Fund. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home 253-572-6003.