Advice on how to do this properly?

I changed the clutch on my 91 Pickup DLX 4x4. I removed the shifter assembly to pull the transmission and transfer case from the truck as a unit.

Noted that there were some washers that fell out of the rubber spacer between the shifter and the trans. I have a forward shift transfer case, so both sticks go through this piece. There are six holes, and six washers.
It looks like at one time those washers were probably integral with the rubber spacer, but they have long since separated. I got lucky and didn't drop any in the transmission on disassembly, but how would you recommend putting this all back together without dropping the washers into the shifter hole? Looking for some creative solutions.

It's worth noting that the rubber spacer is shrunk and doesn't quite line up any more. I've been trying to find a replacement part, but can't seem to locate one anywhere.

 

Well, I tried something, and it worked, so I'll post here for posterity.

Used some RTV to "glue" the rubber spacer to the top of the transmission. Let it set for a while. Put a tiny tab of RTV on each washer, and dropped them into place in the holes, and let that set for a while too. Then came back with the shifter assembly and dropped it on. Worked great and nothing shifted or dropped into the transmission.

 

When I did mine I threw the rubber piece in the trash and just used gray silicone.