Obituary: Gearl Douglas Mason

Gearl Douglas Mason, age 64, of Kalispell, died at his home May 6, 2020. Gearl was born in Los Angeles, Calif., Nov. 29, 1955 to Ila Haslip. At four years of age, Gearl's mother married Lee Mason in California, though he was not adopted, he carried the Mason name throughout his life.

Gearl received his education in Bell Gardens, Calif., graduating from Bell Gardens High School in 1973. Gearl enlisted in the United States Army, serving 16 years and was honorably discharged 1989. Gearl worked as an Air Traffic Controller, both in civilian and military life.

In 2005, Gearl moved to Kalispell to live near his brother Richard. He also worked part time in the car detail business. Gearl loved gardening, astronomy and music. Gearl was a beloved son to his fat her. He enjoyed hiking and communing with nature. He expressed concern for the environment.

Gearl was preceded in death by his mother, Ila Mason in Feb. 1990. At the time of his passing, Gearl was survived by his daughter, Marguerite Hernandez of Ohio; his father, Lee (Susan) Mason of Lincoln; his brother, Richard L. Mason of Kalispell; three stepsisters, Elissa (Jordan) of Hogeland, Mont., Leslie (Robert) Jaramillo of Irving, TX, and Andrea (Brad) Castle of Alexandria, Va. He was also survived by two grandchildren.

A graveside service with military honors is scheduled for 2 p.m.. Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at the Old Lincoln Cemetery outside of Lincoln, with Pastor Steve Fawcett presiding.