Gary Gene Kuist

Gary Gene Kuist (79), beloved husband, brother and uncle, passed away peacefully, February, 24th in Santa Barbara. He is survived by his loving companion and wife of 50 years, Kia Willow McInerny.

Gary was a native Californian, born on January 9, 1946 to Blaine and Madeline Kuist in the Friendly Hills area of Whittier, California. He graduated from La Serna High School in 1963 and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Arizona, Tucson, in 1967.

Gary was a former naval officer serving in Vietnam, and had a long and distinguished career as an attorney in Los Angeles.

In the fall of 1972, Gary entered law school at California Western in San Diego, where he met Kia, his life-long love. He also earned a Master’s Degree in Business from California State College, Long Beach.

In 2016, Gary accessed his inner architect to design and oversee the building of a contemporary ranch-style home in Santa Barbara. It was his special joy to view the mountains through the wall of windows he designed.

Travel was a favorite activity. Gary and Kia often chose international destinations for wine interviews and writing, featuring Gary’s photographs.

Gary was proud of his authentically restored 1967 gold-on-gold Camaro convertible, which took 1st place in its class in Montecito’s 2017 Motor Classic. He had purchased the car off the dealer’s floor as a young ensign about to meet his ship in Hawaii.

Gary’s achievements – in law, travel, wine and architecture – describe a “Renaissance man.” Gary will be remembered for his curiosity and warm, outgoing personality, as well as his ability to tell a great story. He was always an enthusiastic party guest and will be dearly missed.

Memorial services will be held privately. Please consider a donation in Gary’s name to the Music Academy of the West, musicacademy.org.