In Loving Memory of
Gary James Kalina Jr
of Seattle, Washington
07/24/1996 – 10/11/2024
We announce the passing of
“Gary James Kalina Jr”
Forever “28”
July 24th, 1996 – October 11th, 2024
Born in Las Vegas, Nevada; he was the son of Amber Melissa Thomas and Gary James Kalina.
Gary James Kalina Jr was incredibly talented: graduated from Arkansas High School at age 17 in Little Rock, Arkansas, whether it was skateboarding, art, beat-boxing, rapping, or parkour. He was a son, a brother, a friend and a father, very passionate about what he loved; reading, writing, graffiti, and was an excellent cook, even sushi. He was an artist and philosopher who not just succeeded but excelled at everything he set out to accomplish. He Loved who loved him with the kind of loyalty most can only dream of.
Gary James Kalina Jr lived his life to the fullest and everyone he came in contact with was influenced by his genuine authenticity and how comfortable he was in his own skin. He was absolutely fearless and had a natural leadership ability that inspired everyone around him to be the best version of themselves. He was a proud member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints and took great pride in being born on Pioneer’s Day.
Gary James Kalina Jr is survived by his daughter Aurora Rae Kalina: age 5, his mother Amber Melissa Thomas: age 53, his step-father Jeremy Chad Anderson: age 43, his brothers- Shawn Michael Kalina: age 25, Jacob Kalina: age 33, his sisters- Chloe Naomie Anderson: age 21, Lauren Mackenzie Anderson: age 18, Kirsten Kalina: age 37, his Grandfathers- Glen Addison Thomas age 77 and Kenneth Kalina age 81, and his Grandmothers- Peggy Lea Wilson age 75 and Janice Marie Jacobson age 82
You had a heart of gold and we all love and miss you everyday.
Long Live “Gary James Kalina Jr”
A Furneral will be held on 7/24/2026 in Mesilla Valley NM, 88047
A permanent memorial of our beloved Gary James Kalina Jr. will be
in Salina Utah, 84654 in the “Pioneer Cemetery” next to his father Gary James Kalina
For more info please contact Amber Anderson – AstepUpintolife@gmail.com
I am so sorry for your loss. Many continued prayers for your family.
Truly, the most original guy I’ve ever met, and also the most loyal friend I’ve ever had. He influenced almost every part of my life—from the clothes I wear to the music I listen to—and that influence still lives on every day. He was absolutely fearless and had a natural leadership ability that inspired everyone around him to be the best version of themselves. From the moment he met me, he showed me unconditional love and support.
Gary was incredibly talented, whether it was skateboarding, art, beatboxing, rapping, or parkour—he excelled at everything he set his mind to. I always saw him as a brother, and I miss him every day. He had such a huge hand in shaping who I am today. I’m watching his favorite anime, Death Note, right now, and I think of him every time I go to church. I wish more than anything that I could call him right now.
If you knew Gary, you know exactly what kind of human being he was. I had some of the best, most unforgettable experiences of my life with him. I will remember him for the rest of my life, and the impact he had on me will never fade.
I’m really sorry you’re going through this, Amber. I love you, and please don’t hesitate to call me if you need anything.
I am very sorry that you’re going through this right now.
No mother deserves the pain of loosing a child…
Like this is heartbreaking…
It doesn’t seem real.
Like I knew Gary was struggling,
But not that hard.
He was always encouraging me to be myself and not follow the crowd!
He was a truly a genius,
Both of your sons are!
He was always true to himself and didn’t fold for nobody, one of the realest people I know always keeping it a buck. With everybody.
I am very grateful to have been apart of the experience of Gary’s life.
He always stressed the importance of being yourself.
We had our ups and downs of our friendship, but that no longer matters.
He was a great friend, and very gifted and talented individual! From beatboxing to skateboarding, he was even a great teacher when it came to all of those things.
He was also a great father! And has influenced me from beyond to do so.
He taught me how important it was to be ourselves and he also was one of the many people in my life to show me that it’s ok to rock to the beat of my own drum, besides my mother.
He inspired me in more ways than one! And was a very great influence in my life. A positive influence in my life.
And always wanted me to do better. And I will continue to remember him as such!
We love you Gary, rest easy brother.
I knew Gary when he was young. Gary Kalina was a good kid. He was kind and personable. He was respectful and friendly. He will be missed.
I join you in being truly saddened by this loss. I enjoyed meeting him. He had a genuine light and glow of spirit. I will continue to pray for your healing.