Gary Andersen

We are sad to announce the passing of Gary Warren Andersen of Lakebay, Washington, on August 22, 2026, at the age of 88. Born in Tacoma on March 5, 1938, to Garfield Warren Andersen and Ella Hoseth, Gary graduated from Stadium High School in 1956 and earned a Fine Arts degree from the University of Puget Sound (UPS). He married Michael Ann (Mike) Esser on February 22, 1963, after meeting while both worked at the Bon Marche.

Following service in the U.S. Coast Guard, Gary began a printing apprenticeship in 1966. In 1969, he transitioned to education, launching a 26-year career at Peninsula High School in Purdy, where he taught graphic arts (“Print Shop”), pottery, and other subjects.

During his early teaching years, Gary returned to UPS to study wheel-thrown pottery under renowned artist F. Carlton Ball. This lifelong passion led him to open his first studio, The Crockery Shop, in a 100-year-old barn in Purdy in 1971. In 1975, Gary and Mike moved their family to a forested 20-acre property near Joemma Beach State Park in Lakebay, where he established Lakebay Pottery. For the next 30 years, he shared his talent at regional farmers markets and gift shows, focusing in later years on wholesaling his signature custom mugs.

Gary joins his late wife Mike who passed away earlier this year. He is survived by his sister Elaine Nordlund, brother David Andersen, and sons Christopher, Gregory, Matthew, and Eric. He also leaves behind six grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and "adopted" family members Vivian Rolfzen and Shannon Fenton.

A joint memorial service celebrating the lives of Gary and Mike will be held on October 3rd at 10:00 AM at the Haven of Rest Funeral Home in Gig Harbor. All who knew them are welcome to attend.