Memorial fund for Gary Stamper's family

My name is Derek Rich, and my friend Adam Freeland and I are starting this fundraiser to support the family of a beloved educator from our youth, Mr. Gary Stamper.

 

Mr. Stamper was our Washington State History instructor in the 1990s, but his Lewis County legacy goes well beyond that. His story is effervescent, inspirational and far-reaching. A Mossyrock High School graduate who earned his Masters in Education Administration at Central Washington University, Stamper was the epitome of a community leader. He returned home and became a teacher, athletic director, and the coach of several successful Lady Viking basketball teams. His coaching career that reached its crescendo with a 2B state championship victory over LaSalle in 2007. After his time with the Mossyrock School District came to a close, he served as Principal at both North Beach High School in Ocean Shores and White Pass High School. Upon retiring from education, Mr. Stamper was elected as a Lewis County Commissioner in 2014, then won his bid for re-election in 2018.

 

Mr. Stamper passed away this week, after a month-long battle with COVID-19. The shock, heartache, and grief felt by the community -- and most especially by his partner Bobbi, his two daughters, and their families -- is heavy and immeasurable.

 

This fundraiser is being created in order to take the financial burden off of Mr. Stamper's family's shoulders, during this time of intense sorrow and need. Mr. Stamper was always there for all of us in a myriad of comforting, supportive ways, and this is our moment to step up and give back to his family. This is our time to rise and reciprocate the love he gave to all of us.

 

All proceeds from this GoFundMe will go to Bobbi, Sheena and Michelle to help with anything and everything -- from memorial expenses, and bills to necessary self-care, in the wake of Mr. Stamper's passing. Let us all show Mr. Stamper's family and loved ones just how much he meant to all of us -- and the positive, loving impact he made -- by showing our unflinching support during their time of unimaginable loss.

 

Thank you all for your time, attention, and pure hearts.