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09/10/2010: "Derry Emil Gislason"

August 26, 1936 ~ August 24, 2010

Derry Emil Gislason, husband of Cyndy Gislason, passed away on August 24, 2010 after a long battle with cancer. He was 73. Derry graduated from Ballard High School in 1954 and went on to graduate from the University of Washington as a Civil Engineer. Early in his career Derry served in the United States Air Force.


Derry and his wife moved to San Juan Island in the 1970s, where they quickly became involved in the local community. Derry was a boater, an airplane pilot, a motor coach gypsy, an avid golfer and tennis player, and a good friend to many on the island.

Later in life, he and Cyndy wintered in the Palm Springs area. He was known for his welcoming hospitality, and generosity. He worked in construction, building a variety of residential and commercial structures in Washington, Arizona and Montana.

Derry had four children, Brad (Pat), Kyle, Leah and Drew (Alicia), and five grandchildren, Nick (Jennifer), Alex, Lita, Genevieve and Elanor. His parents were Emil and Genevieve Gislason of Seattle. Derry's sister Vallen Clark lives in Sun City, Arizona. He is also survived by his first wife Lorraine Gislason of Friday Harbor. Derry was preceded in death by his parents, sister Donna and his son Kyle.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Derry handled the news and pain of cancer as he did everything in life - with an upbeat and positive attitude.

By his request, there will not be a memorial service. If you would like to make a donation in his name, he supported Children's Hospital and Toys for Tots.