Serving the Big Horn Basin for over 100 years
Charles Edward Gilmore, Jr. 84, passed away peacefully at his home on December 12, 2023. Charles was born September 18, 1939 in Upham, North Dakota, the third child born to Charles Edward, Sr. and Florence (Wik) Gilmore.
Charles graduated from Manderson High School in 1957 and furthered his education by earning a degree in accounting from Northwest Community College in 1959. In 1961, Charles and his wife, Vasca, made their home in Worland. Charles embarked on a distinguished career, working for prominent companies such as Holly Sugar, Dale Weaver, Inc., and McGarvin-Moberly. His commitment and leadership at McGarvin-Moberly spanned over 30 years, starting as Comptroller, and eventually becoming President and part-owner after helping establish an employee stock ownership plan in 1988.
Beyond his professional achievements, Charles was deeply involved in highway construction, serving as the President of the American General Contractors of Wyoming. His dedication to the industry was recognized when he was named "Contractor of the Year" by the Wyoming Contractors Association in 2004.
Charles' passion extended beyond his career, as he actively contributed to the community by initiating a youth basketball league between churches, which eventually paved the way for the development of youth recreational programs. His coaching legacy in Little League, Babe Ruth, Legion Baseball and basketball, spanned over 40 years, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives.
In addition to his professional and community commitments, Charles found joy in music, playing his trumpet in bands for dances and spending time at home writing sheet music. His love for the outdoors was evident in his enjoyment of riding his horse, Rusty, and assisting with cattle whenever possible.
Above all, Charles Gilmore was a devoted family man, placing his loved ones at the center of his life. Known for his generosity, he was always ready to lend a helping hand to friends and family alike.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Gary; brother, Gary; sisters, Gale and Diane.
Charles is survived by his wife of 63 years, Vasca; daughters, Tracy (John) Koski of Billings, Montana, Shawna Bagwell of Amarillo, Texas, Leslie Gilmore of Tulsa, Oklahoma; daughter-in-law L'nette Gilmore; grandchildren: Luke Bagwell, Levi Bagwell, Lindsay Koski, Caitlin Koski, and Landen Gilmore; brother, Dan (Marilyn) Gilmore of Sacramento, California; sister, Georgia (Eldon) Leithead of Worland and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorial Services will be held 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at Grace Lutheran Church with Pastor Timothy Trippel officiating. Memorial donations may be made to Worland Youth Recreational Program and sent to PO Box 524, Worland, WY 82401. Online condolences may be made at http://www.bryant
funeralhomeonline.com.