Gary Taylor

It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather and husband Gary Taylor at age 75. Surrounded by his family, Gary passed away on March 15, 2026, in Petaluma Valley Hospital. Gary was born in San Fransico on October 29,1950, to parents Olen and Violet Taylor of Santa Rosa, he was part of the first graduating class of Piner High School in 1968. He spent most of his younger years deeply involved in sports, where he excelled in baseball and football. Gary next went on to Santa Rosa JC where he developed his lifelong love of horticulture and a passion for landscape and nature. It was at this time that he met the love of his life June (Crudo) Taylor; they married on June 20, 1970. In 1973 they left Sonoma County and made a life in Ukiah CA. They had two daughters Rachael and Jennifer that meant the world to Gary. Unfortunately, in 1985 Gary had a life altering accident while cutting firewood that left him paralyzed, however nothing could stop him from always living life to the best of his capabilities. His family would often marvel at his perseverance, strength, and determination. After his accident he even went on to join a Santa Rosa wheelchair basketball team and trained often for many wheelchair racing events. With the help and encouragement of our wonderful community, Gary eventually started his own landscape maintenance business called TaylorMade Landscape and Maintenance which he ran for over twenty years. In their retirement years, Gary and June spent most of their free time designing, planting, and relaxing in their cherished yards at home. Family meant absolutely everything to both June and Gary, and they got most of their happiness from a simple BBQ, a grandchild’s sporting event, or the many family holiday celebrations together. Gary is preceded in death by his father Olen Taylor and is survived by his mother, Violet Taylor of Santa Rosa, his sister Carolyn Dawson of Oregon, his wife of 55 years June, daughters Rachael Peaslee (Lucas Peaslee) and Jennifer Lopez (Shokie Lopez). He leaves behind his precious five grandchildren, Kelsi and Jacob Fowler, Ethan, Tehna, and Beau Lopez.

A private graveside service will take place with a celebration of life to be held at a later date. He will be greatly missed but will remain in our hearts forever.