In cooperation with the Hood River County Education Foundation
Butch Gehrig was born and raised in the Hood River Valley and grew up in a family of nine children. He learned from an early age the importance of hard work and commitment to his community. He lived his entire life in the community of Odell. His love of automobiles began at a young age watching his father work at the family’s business, Gehrig’s Chevron in Odell. Butch went to work there as a young teenager and never left. In 1981, his father retired and turned the business over to Butch’s capable hands. It was a great fit. Butch loved helping people and working on cars. Car restoration and collecting became a hobby early in his life. He completed his first show car before he graduated from high school. Many cars followed, some that are still in the garage.
Butch hired many young people over the forty years of business. Many started out at 14 years old. Some worked for Butch from that age until completing their two-year college degree. He was always kind and patient. He loved to see those young people go on to become successful citizens. Many have followed in his footsteps to own their own businesses. He was very proud of each of them.
Butch served his community with over 30 years of service on the Odell Sanitary District Board, 23 years on the Hood River Electric CO-OP board, 12 as President. He contributed to the community by sponsoring a Little League Baseball Team for decades, volunteering with the Boy Scouts when asked, an open door to help the Staff at St. Francis House Outreach for Children, a member of WyEast Fire District. He and his wife, Patricia opened their home to many in need, including a few years as Foster Parents.
Butch was a life-long member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. He served on the Leadership Board there.
It would please Butch to know he will continue to help young people achieve their goals in life with this memorial scholarship.
One scholarship of $1000, renewable for one additional year with good academic standing
CRITERIA
- Intent to pursue training and career in automotive technology
- Successful completion of (or current enrollment in) minimum of 1 trade-related class with grade of B or above while at HRVHS
- Financial Need
SUPPLEMENTS
- Essay: Please write a one page essay titled “My Favorite Automotive Project”
SCORING
- Financial Need (50%)
- Essay (25%)
- Letter of recommendation (25%)
- Community Service (10%)
TAGS
