Gary Ray Mangrum was born on January 19th, 1949, in Scotia, California, the third child of Cecil and Lois Mangrum. He grew up in South Fork and spent his childhood and early adult years in Humboldt County. Gary grew up playing little league in Weott, and later played football for South Fork High School. He transferred to Fortuna High School when the family relocated to Redcrest after the 1964 flood, where he graduated after playing two years of varsity football. Gary worked for the Pacific Lumber Company and Zellerbach before relocating to Sacramento, CA. There he founded and ran Mangrum &Associates, a successful packaging supply business, for over 35 years. He relocated to Seattle, WA in 2022 to be closer to family for medical care, where he passed away peacefully after a battle with dementia on July 12, 2025.

Gary was well-known in the Northern California agriculture industry for his work ethic, customer service, and loyalty. In his free time, he enjoyed playing and watching golf, attending Sacramento Kings games, watching the Rams, and traveling. He was also an avid supporter of the Sacramento State Hornets baseball team, and loved to support his nephew, Coach Reggie Christiansen.

Gary was preceded in death by his mother, Lois in 1977, his father Cecil in 2006, his brother Dewey in 1968, and his brother Kendall in 2006.

He is survived by his son, two daughters, and his grandchildren: Mickey & Kaden Mangrum of Fortuna, CA; Jessica, Michael (son-in-law) & Sidney Dolin of Seattle, WA; and Janelle, Mason, and Molly Mack of Denver, CO. He is also survived by his sisters and their families: Pat and Chris Christiansen of Visalia, CA; Cindy and Jan Stout of Roseville, CA; and Terri and Reid Fisher of Fortuna, CA.

Gary is also survived by his Aunt Linda Harper and his many nieces and nephews.

Tribute donations in Gary’s name can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.