His many admirers thought it only fitting that flags were flown at half mast and a commemorative Gary Boothman Day marked the sudden passing of the highly regarded former Friday Harbor Mayor by heart attack Aug. 29.

A longtime resident, Boothman was known for his gentle spirit and integrity as a well as his distinguished woodworking and boating, serving as San Juan Sailing Club Commodore, winning a Round Shaw Classic and placing well in the Swiftsure and Cape Flattery Races.

He was Mayor for two terms 1996-2004. His administrations were known for achievements in conservation and the preservation of the social and architectural integrity of the town and wider community. His work was historic in curbing costs and in planning for the Growth Management Act during a controversial time.

Gary Grover Boothman attended Hiram Johnson High School in Sacramento, and graduated in 1965 from the University of California, Davis, majoring in Philosophy. He was an accomplished chef, tennis player, and ardent baseball fan who coached Little League in Friday Harbor. He also collected vintage automobiles, including the last of the air-cooled Porsche 911s.

But in addition to his professional and public service achievements, he is remembered for his unfailing generosity and as a gentle man.

“He was all the best in community service,” said his close friend Dick Barnes.