Henry Ellsworth Gamester

Henry Ellsworth “Topper” Gamester was surrounded by loved ones when he passed away on Sunday, September 29th at the age of 83. Topper’s swift decline was precipitated by a fall and resulting broken hip. At the hospital, a complicating diagnosis of Pulmonary Fibrosis was also made. 

Topper served in the Navy from 1961 to 1966. Once home, and after attending Michigan State University in Lansing, Topper graduated with a degree in Business Administration from California Polytechnic University in Pomona. Topper then spent many years managing distribution centers for Sears Roebuck, T.J. Lipton, Kal Kan Pet Foods, and Science Diet Pet foods.

Topper’s late wife Bettye Ruth – to whom he was married for more than 51 years – preceded him in death. For several years the couple lived and worked in Southern California where they’d met, dated, and married. Moving to Oregon in the late nineteen-seventies, among other work, the couple owned and operated a feed and vet supply store west of Eugene. Moving to the Lincoln City area in 1994, Topper worked at North Lincoln Hospital and the local Ace Hardware Store over the years. During this time, Topper was an active member of the local Lodge of the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks, serving in several positions including that of Exalted Ruler as well as District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler. In his later years, Topper enjoyed socializing, walking, viewing his favorite TV programs, as well as the occasional “Topper Tonic”.

Topper is survived by his daughter Rebecca, sons Tom and Steven, Grandchildren Will and Bella, sister Lolley and brother Paul, all of whom will miss him dearly.