South County Profile: Gary Spurgeon

GARY SPURGEON

Gary Spurgeon was born and raised in the North State. The first school he attended was East Cottonwood. The family then moved to Red Bluff. In 1989, Spurgeon and his wife moved to Cottonwood to raise their family. Spurgeon knew that this is where he and his wife wanted to raise their kids, as their families did.

Fifteen months ago, the Spurgeon’s decided to open their own silk-screen and embroidery shop, thus a successful business was born. Spurgeon works three days a week, which he said is just enough to keep him busy. In a typical week, Spurgeon works on some major accounts, has many repeat customers and is always open to a new challenge. Spurgeon’s wife Becky also works at the shop.

“I enjoy working with the embroidery and silk-screen, because it is a neat art form that can be expressed with each individual and not everyone can do it,” he said.

“It makes a person feel good when you go somewhere and someone is wearing the shirt that you designed and printed,” said Spurgeon.

Spurgeon’s favorite part of his job is working with the customers and keeping them happy.

While attending Red Bluff High School and Shasta College, Spurgeon spent many hours participating in local Shasta County car clubs and making many life-long friends. Spurgeon enjoys living in the South County area because it has a small town atmosphere and everyone is willing to help the other.

He also enjoys being close to all of the wilderness activities that the North State has to offer. In his spare time, Spurgeon enjoys spending quality time with his family and going fishing, camping and to the movies.

Spurgeon is a 1983 graduate of Red Bluff High School and has been married to his wife, Becky, for 22 years. Together, they have three children, Kendra, Cody and Kassie.

Name: Gary Spurgeon

Born where and when: Red Bluff, 1964

Occupation: Co-owner of Spurgeon’s Embroidery

Marital status: Married 22 years

Family: My wife Becky, and children, Kendra 18; Cody, 15; and Kassie, 14.

Pets: One dog, Mocha and three cats Pokey, Ralph and Miss Priss.

Worst job: Wood Cutting.

First job: Wood Cutting.

In my spare time I: Fish.

Favorite book: Where the Red Fern Grows.

Favorite movie: August Rush.

Favorite recording artist: Elvis Presley.

Dream car: A 32 Ford Coupe.

Friends like me because: I am happy.

If stranded on a deserted island, I would want: My wife and kids with me.

One thing in life I’ve learned is: Enjoy each day as if it were your last.

The best advice my parents gave me: Do the right thing to others.

Most embarrassing moment: Giving my first speech, when I got to the point of introducing the person I was talking about, I forgot their name and just stood there. It was very embarrassing!

Most irrational act: I’m not irrational. I try to think things out before I act.

Most valued material possession: My wedding ring.

What I like best about the North State: The people.

My heroes are: My parents.

My pet peeve is: People who drive 40 miles an hour in the fast lane.

If I could change one thing about myself I would: Be taller.

The one thing Shasta County needs most is: Youth activities year round.

The most enjoyable thing about life is: My family.