William Douglas "Bill" Garske, 58, of Usk, Washington, passed away peacefully, but unexpectedly, at home in Usk, WA on June 25, 2026, after complications from COPD. Born on November 28, 1967, in Spokane, Washington, Bill lived a life marked by resilience, devotion to family, and a deep love for the outdoors.

A proud graduate of Joel E. Ferris High School in 1987, Bill embarked on a journey of service and hard work that defined his character. Shortly after high school, with the encouragement of his father, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Bill served honorably for six years before being discharged. His time in the Marines instilled in him a sense of discipline and pride that he carried throughout his life.

After his military service, Bill began working for Bekins Moving & Storage. However, a serious fall from a moving truck resulted in injuries that altered the course of his career. Undeterred by this setback, Bill transitioned into the field of machining. He became a journeyman machinist and worked at several companies over the years, including Travis Pattern & Foundry, MRS Roll forming, ASC, and Spokane Industries. Unfortunately, due to ongoing injuries and health challenges, he was forced to file for disability in 2014.

Bill’s life was enriched by his love for the outdoors. Whether hunting in the woods, fishing by serene waters, or camping under starlit skies with friends and family, he found joy and peace in nature. He especially cherished these moments when accompanied by his wife and the beloved Labradors he owned over the years. A lifelong fan of the Seattle Seahawks since their inception as an NFL team, Bill celebrated their victories with enthusiasm—none more so than their first Super Bowl win.

Faith played an important role in Bill’s later years. Raised in the Catholic tradition during his youth, he renewed his relationship with Jesus Christ after meeting and marrying Tonya (Lewis) Garske. In 2012, he was baptized at Hillyard Baptist Church—a moment that brought him great spiritual fulfillment. Bill looked forward to meeting his Lord and Savior and finding eternal peace free from pain.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife Tonya; his sister Lauri Mathews and brother-in-law Ken Mathews; brother-in-law Randy Lewis (Betty Lewis); sister-in-law Kaleen Sarver; and many extended family members including nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews and many others who will remember him fondly.

He was predeceased by his parents Douglas and MaryBeth Garske.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 22, 2026 at 1:00pm, at Parkside Church, 1428 1st Street in Newport, WA to honor Bill’s memory and legacy. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Real Life Selkirk Legacy Building Fund.

May William Douglas "Bill" Garske rest peacefully in eternal comfort. His memory will live on through those who knew him best and loved him most.

https://www.legacy.com/legacy/william-garske?utm_source=copiedlink&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=memoriamsconfirmationshare