K. Gary Somerville

Kenneth Gary Somerville, age 81, of Casper, Wyoming, passed away on the evening of February 6, surrounded by loved ones. Gary led a life characterized by adventure, guidance, support, and love, shared with his high school sweetheart, Sondra Somerville (Hansen), and multiple generations of his family. Throughout his lifetime, Gary embraced a variety of roles, including Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Mentor, Friend, Coach, Woodworker, Boat Captain, Outdoorsman, and Storyteller. He particularly cherished recounting tales from the past around a campfire to any willing listeners.

Gary was born to the late Kenneth Earl Somerville and Thelma Jean Somerville on December 7, 1944, in Brawley, California, and later became an elder brother to Randy Somerville. He graduated from Boxelder High School in 1963, where he met Sondra at a church dance. Her memorable declaration, “I am going to marry that boy,” ultimately became a reality. Gary pursued his studies at Snow College and Utah State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in marine biology. He and Sondra were married in 1965 and together welcomed two children, Kenneth Troy Somerville and Amy Jean Somerville (Dorman). His professional endeavors ranged from employment with the Utah Game and Fish to various other fields, including uranium research, hunting and fishing guidance, and ultimately, retirement from the Natrona County School District #1 as a truancy officer. Gary also coached football, with both the school district and semi-professionally with the Wyoming Cavalry indoor football team. He furthered his academic credentials at TROY University by obtaining his polygrapher certification.

Gary possessed an enduring passion for the outdoors, seizing every opportunity to engage in hunting or time on any body of water. He was particularly committed to passing along proper hunting morals and ethics to his daughter, grandsons, and great grandsons while participating in the pursuit of various game animals, from antelope to elk. Whenever an outing was planned, Gary ensured he was prepared to accompany others into what he affectionately referred to as “God’s Country.” Many of his favorite stories, often shared around a fire with a strong beverage, originated from years spent living above 10,000 feet. When not in the high country, he enjoyed relaxing on the lake, listening to music by Jimmy Buffet, the Beach Boys, or classic country hits. These stories continue to be recounted under similar circumstances amongst family and friends.

Above all else, Gary took the greatest pride in his roles as Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Great Grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Sondra, whose love he demonstrated daily as an example to their son, Troy (Julie), and daughter, Amy. He is also survived by four grandchildren: Justin (Lexis), Patrick (Jocelyn), Tyler (Hannah), and Tori. Furthering his legacy, Gary is survived by four great grandchildren: Bryor, Brixton, Jaytin, and Griffin. He attended numerous sporting events, school productions, plays, ceremonies, and other occasions to support and recognize his family members. No obstacle, whether distance or personal limitations, deterred him from being present as a steadfast figure to his loved ones.

A celebration of life will take place on April 25, 2026, from 12-3 PM at Fort Caspar Museum providing an opportunity to eat, gather, share stories, and commemorate the exceptional life lived by Gary over 81 years. For further information, please contact Sondra or Amy.

Lastly, in place of flowers and other items, donations from family and friends will be collected at the celebration of life to create a large monetary donation to Wyoming Hunting with Heros.

To share a memory of Gary or leave a special message for the family, please visit the guestbook below.