Godon K. Irle

After a lifetime of community service, Gordon K. Irle passed from this world on September 14 at the age of 8 He was born in Cle Elum in 1931 and grew up there and in Port Townsend. He was active in Boy Scouts and attained the rank of Eagle. Following high school Gordon earned a Masters degree in education from Central Washington University with an emphasis in physics. He met Janice Ferrill while at college whom he married in 1954.

Following a stint in the Air Force, Gordon and Janice settled in Cashmere in 1957. Gordon began his teaching career at Cashmere High School where he taught chemistry, physics and photography, retiring in 1988. In later years he and Janice enjoyed many trips abroad, including several adventurous bicycle tours of Europe. An avid outdoorsman, Gordon enjoyed hiking, fishing and hunting and especially skiing, serving 30 years on the Mission Ridge Ski Patrol.

Gordon will be best remembered for his tireless efforts to serve the community. A longtime city councilman, he served two terms as Mayor of Cashmere, was instrumental in developing mass transit (Link) for Wenatchee Valley and was board chair for Chelan County Democrats. His service included 50 years as a Mason and acting as Advisor and Grand Deputy for Rainbow Girls. In 1992, the Cashmere Chamber of Commerce awarded him Citizen of the Year.

Gordon was also a businessman. He purchased his first rental home in Cashmere in the mid-60’s, acquiring more than 20 properties and creating Irle Rentals.

Gordon leaves behind Janice, his wife of 64 years, children Patricia, Carolyn, Gary and David, his brother Roger, five grandchildren and two great grandchildren. A memorial service celebrating Gordon’s life will be held on Saturday, October 6 at 2 p.m. at Cashmere Middle School.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Chelan-Douglas Land Trust.