Approximately 50 people, including members of late Lewis County Commissioner Gary Stamper’s surviving family, his friends and former colleagues, attended the dedication ceremony for a new memorial plaque in Stamper’s honor at the Gary Stamper Memorial Overlook.
Located on the north shore of Riffe Lake along U.S. Highway 12 between Mossyrock and Morton, the overlook was named after Stamper following his death in 2021 from COVID-19.
Stamper was born in the area in 1954 in the now-submerged town of Riffe, and prior to being elected county commissioner in 2014, he was actively involved in education, coaching as well in Mossyrock.
Among some of Stamper’s professional achievements included:
Here’s the full text that appears on the plaque:
“This overlook is dedicated to Gary Stamper, a lifelong advocate for Lewis County. As a County Commissioner, principal, teacher and coach, Gary devoted himself to improving the lives of others through his generosity, humor, leadership and selfless acts of kindness. Gary stood firm in supporting the timber industry, advancing outdoor recreation and ensuring his community’s voice was heard. His passion for his work was rivaled only by his love for his family and friends. With a keen focus on timber and transportation, Gary proved instrumental in the success of many key projects, such as widening Interstate 5, paving the way for local WATV use and enhancing the view from this very spot — which overlooks the now-submerged town of Riffe, where Gary spent the earliest years of his life. Gary’s commitment to his community made a lasting impact. His legacy of service and his dedication to preserving the rural way of life in Lewis County will be remembered here for generations.”
