Garry Donald Stone, 78, of Gardnerville passed away August 2nd, 2016. Garry was born in Lovelock, Nevada on October 29th, 1937, son of Donald and Lilly (Lee) Stone. He was a second-generation lifelong Nevada resident, proudly spending his life in Lovelock, Carson Valley, and Reno. He graduated from Pershing County High School in 1955 and went on to attend the University of Nevada, Reno.
After college he started a 55-year career managing water, first with the Pershing County Irrigation District, then the Carson Water Subconservancy District in Carson Valley, and ultimately serving as U.S. District Court Watermaster for 30 years. As Watermaster, he operated Lake Tahoe, the Carson and Truckee rivers, and numerous Sierra reservoirs. He loved his job and considered the Watermaster’s office staff his second family.
In addition to his career in water, he served as a Douglas County Commissioner from 1974 to 1980 as well as offering his leadership to numerous boards and service organizations. Garry retired in 2013, which allowed more time for him to enjoy travel and family. The favorite of his many travels was the month-long road trip he took to Alaska with his wife, Susan. Over the course of his travels, most time was spent in his beloved Nevada.
In 2011 the Carson Valley Chamber of Commerce recognized Garry as one of the 150 most influential people in the history of Douglas County. Family and friends celebrate his great character, which was guided by a strong moral compass, focused on love, responsibility, and service.
Garry is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Susan, and his five devoted children: Sherri (Chris) Long, of Reno, Penni (Hal) Curti of Coleville, CA, David (Alane) Towell of Hermosa Beach, CA, Mark (Alecia) Towell of Reno, and Rob (Jamie) Stone of Gardnerville. He is also survived by his sister, Gaynelle Stone Ashworth of Goose Creek, SC, his 12 precious grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
At Garry’s request, there will not be a service. We invite family and friends to celebrate his life on Sunday, August 14th, 11:00AM to 1:00PM. This informal gathering will be at 1238 Centerville Lane in Gardnerville.
The family suggests sending contributions in loving memory of Garry Stone, to City of Refuge (refugenevada.com.), founded by Garry’s cousin David Gamble. We invite you to send condolences at: www.waltonsfuneralhomes.com. Final arrangements entrusted to Walton’s Funerals and Cremations, Gardnerville, NV.
