Gale Clayton Bandow

Mar 18, 1932 -

Sep 25, 2020

Gale C. Bandow, 88, our beloved father and grandfather, died on Sept. 25, 2020, in Normandy Park, Wash. He was born on March 18, 1932, in Intake, Mont., to Raymond and Alice Bandow. Gale graduated from Choteau High School in May 1951, and served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War and completed his duty in August 1955.

In 1961, Gale married Faye Nielsen of Conrad, Mont. They moved to Anchorage, Alaska, in 1964, after Gale accepted a new role with Safeway. He was recognized for managerial excellence many times. He was named Store Manager of the Year in 1979. He served as president of the P.T.A., coached Little League baseball and was active on his church council. He enjoyed judging local pageants. Gale retired in 1986 and moved to Seattle to be closer to his children.

He built a home on Anderson Island before eventually settling in Tacoma, Wash. He was an avid sports fan and rarely missed his grandkids sporting events. He loved to take road trips to Montana, take cruises with his son and loved spending time with his family. Gale was known for his generosity and took great pleasure in helping others.

He is preceded in death by his daughter, DeAnza Bandow; and brothers, Richard, Ken, Neil and Farrell. He is survived by his daughter, Blyth McFaul with her husband Gerry and two children Conner and Abigale; and son, Darren Bandow and his two children Dane and Demi.

Due to COVID-19, a memorial service will be held later for family members at the Tahoma National Cemetery. Remembrances may be made to the Parkinson's Foundation or to a charity of your choice.