Gary Gladen Obituary

Gary Gladen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on July 1, 2025, in Pioneer, CA. He was 70 years old.
Born on September 11, 1954, in Vancouver, WA, Gary spent the first few years of his childhood in Portland, OR. His family relocated to Pinole, CA, where he lived until he graduated from high school. Gary then took a job with Hatler Lumber Company in Big Hill, CA. This marked the beginning of Gary's career in the logging industry. After spending some time in Big Hill, Gary met the love of his life, Nancy, and they married shortly after, remaining together for 47 years. They eventually relocated to Pioneer, CA. Gary then purchased his very first log truck, marking the beginning of his logging business, which was initially established as Gladen & Son Logging and later became Woodland Expansion Inc. He successfully ran and grew his business alongside his loving wife and three children. Gary went on to purchase property in the upcountry area of Amador County. With this property, he was able to fulfil his dreams and build a beautiful mountain paradise. Later in his life, the iconic Ham's Station was available for purchase. Gary and Nancy made the purchase and restored this historical building, which was another dream and passion of his. Gary owned and operated multiple successful businesses in his life. Gary also had a long-standing career with Caltrans, performing snow removal on Highway 88 for over 20 years.
Gary had a deep appreciation and love for the outdoors, especially the Sierra Nevada Mountains. He enjoyed all outdoor recreation and doing them with his family. Gary was an advocate for the timber industry and served as a board member for the Associated California Loggers, as well as chapter chair for the El Dorado/Mother Lode region, for many years. Gary traveled to Washington, D.C, many times with the Associated California Loggers, by special invitation with the American Loggers Council. He fought hard for the timber industry, and he was instrumental in helping shape new rules for forestry management. He was a former board member of TuCare, based in Tuolumne County, and was actively involved on the Amador County Ag committee. Gary went on to build a meaningful life centered on hard work, kindness, and devotion to his family.
Gary was known for his huge heart, sense of humor, honesty, and would always see the potential in people. He always believed in second chances and pushed people to be their best selves. Gary was always smiling; it was infectious and would always light up a room. Gary was admired for his many qualities, and one of his best qualities is that he never knew a stranger.
Gary is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Gladen. His children, Jeremiah Gladen, Jodie & Derik Reed, Amy & Trent Rudloff, Grandchildren, Garret Gibbs, Wyatt Gillaspie, Marshall Gibbs, Georgia Reed, Brielle Gladen, Virgil Reed, Wyatt Smith, Ariel Watson, Isaac Rudloff, Gaige Cantor. Siblings, Debbie Gladen, Julie & Scott Taylor. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey & Margie Gladen.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Community Christian Church at 10:00 am, followed by a celebration of life at the Italian Picnic Grounds at noon. All who knew Gary are welcome to attend and celebrate his life. Monetary donations can be made in two ways. For Nancy Gladen, please mail checks to PO Box 782, Pioneer, CA 95666. Or to Log a Load for kids, checks can be sent to ACL 555, Capital Mall, Suite 460, Sacramento, CA. 95814 - note in memory of Gary Gladen on check.
The family wishes to thank everyone for their prayers and support during this difficult time. Gary's love and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.