Gary Leslie Tarbell

Gary Tarbell was born on June 8, 1949 in Salinas, California. He left this world on January 24, 2023 at the age of 73. Gary attended school in Orosi, California and graduated from Orosi High School. He was an all around athlete in high school and went on to become a member of the Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) mainly the "rough stock". Gary was drafted and served proudly in the United States Army and actively served as an armored track commander in the Vietnam War from 1969-1970. He achieved the rank of Specialist 4 and was awarded the Army Commendation Medal with an Oak Leaf Cluster, as well as several others. Gary went on to become the cowboy that we all knew and loved. He was employed by various cattle ranches and slowly built up his own herd. Cattle ranching was his life and his love. He mentored many youngsters in the "Cowboy Logic" and craft. He could be found at the JR Rodeo on the weekends cheering on his grandchildren among many others. He loved kids! His favorite volunteer position was pulling the gate for the rough stock events, making sure to share all his knowledge and experience with the kid behind it. But not without making them smile in some way. Gary was a "social giant." For years, he was lovingly called the "Mayor of Elderwood" by many of the community members. He had a quick wit and a definite presence. He was a stranger to no one, and spoke his mind without remorse. You heard what Gary had to say whether you wanted to or not. In spite of his gruff exterior, Gary had one of the biggest hearts. He was always ready to help, assuring you that whatever your problem was, bailing twine would probably fix it. Recently, Gary acquired a love of building rustic furniture. This included everything from birdhouses, to boot jacks, and tables to knickknacks. He spent a lot of time on his new hobby, "Cowboy Creations" and he was very good at it. Gary is survived by his wife, and love of his life for 43 years, Colene Tarbell; his three children, Sean Tarbell (Danielle) of Benicia, California; Justin Tarbell (Janette) of Canyon Lake, Texas; and Tamara Tarbell-Lea of Elderwood, California. Honorary son, Bobby Roberts (Jamie) of Visalia, California. He is also survived by his brother, Charles Tarbell (Shari) of Visalia, California; his sister, Linda Messer of Atascadero, California; and his grandchildren: Jacob Tarbell, Jennifer Wendt (Nate), Jonathan Tarbell (Hannah), Cash Lea, Saige Lea, and Reese Roberts. Gary has touched so many lives throughout our community and he will be greatly missed by all. He will, however, always be in our hearts. Oh the last goodbye's the hardest one to say. This is where the Cowboy rides away. There will be a Celebration of Life at 11:00 am on February 23, 2023 at the Cottonwood Barn (19969 Ave 376, Woodlake, CA 93286). Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Gary Leslie Tarbell

June 8, 1949 - January 24, 2023