Name: Gearhart Funeral Home
Address: Coon Rapids, MN

Gerry passed away on December 5, 2021, at Buffalo Hospital in Buffalo, MN. During the prior summer months, a skin reaction thought to be a bug bite resulted in multiple Dr visits, imaging scans and a stress test that all confirmed he was in good overall physical health. Gerry only took daily vitamins and a low dose blood pressure medication. On Wed. Nov 24 he went to Urgent Care for shortness of breath and was told his oxygen was borderline low and prescribed an inhaler to use if needed. His oxygen continued to fluctuate through the night 87-89% so 911 was called early in the morning. The arriving paramedics hesitated on need for further care, however since it was Thanksgiving Day and beds were filling from COVID pandemic it was decided best to go to Mercy Hospital. Within a few hours, Gerry went from breathing with room air to needing 15 Liters of oxygen requiring to be admitted. That evening, he was transferred from ER to Buffalo Hospital as the first available bed in the State MN. With high motivation, courage and perseverance Gerry’s Drs anticipated a transition out of ICU on Dec. 6 or 7 however he developed a blood clot in his lower leg and then likely additional one in lung. Gerry passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. He is survived by wife Margie, children Greg (Suzy), Pam (Rodney), Allen (Kari). Grandchildren Elizabeth, Cole, Kassi, Luke, Gabby, Kiley, Carsen. Great Grandson Adrian. Brother Gene. Gerry received Anointing of the sick at Buffalo Hospital by Fr. Meyers from Kings House in Buffalo, MN Nov. 29, 2021. Funeral Services: Church of St. Paul in Ham Lake, MN. Gerry was laid to rest in Epiphany church cemetery, Coon Rapids, MN next to his son Mark. He will be remembered dearly and forever missed.  


Hobbies in adulthood include bowling league for about 10 years with Margie, Uncle John and Aunt Sylvia Snyder and playing on a work softball team. Gerry especially enjoyed coaching his children in softball, T-ball, hockey, and soccer. Other interests involved working in the yard, gardening, farming, fishing, hunting, dancing, and country music.  
 
Faith was important to Gerry. He was a member of Epiphany Catholic Church 1969-2021. During that time, he was an active member of the Knights of Columbus 1967-1974, did vigil candle cleaning and delivered meals on wheels. 
 
Some of his most prestigious awards include 3 patents (1998, 2003 and 2004). 
 
Favorite vacations included Lake Tahoe, NV; Driving to FL in Motorhome; Merced, CA to visit Gene on 80th b-day; Anchorage AK to visit Mike with Jim; Alaskan Cruise with Arnie & Millie; Kauai, HA; Branson, MO for the Mel Tillis show; traveling throughout MN to many polka festivals;  Denver CO for Lyle Carters funeral (cousin of Gerry's); Houseboat week in Babbit, MN with Gene/Sharon & Jim/Marlene; horseback riding in Canadian Rockies; San Diego, CA and Washington, DC with Ivan & Lois Bartel plus many trips to North Shore area and Tall Ships shows in Duluth, MN. 

 
Earning Technical degrees in Engineering Drafting, Electronics Drafting, Tool Design and Production Management, Gerry’s primary occupation was Manufacturing Engineering. He was employed initially with:      

 - 1961-1964 Honeywell: Punch Press Operator 

-  1964-1969 Telex: Draftsman  

-  1969-1971 Abel Industries: Tooling Coordinator/Draftsman  

-  1971-1975 Wilbrecht Electronics: Press Foreman  

-  1975 -1978 Thomas Engineering Co.: Tooling Estimator 

- 1978 – 2002 Resistance Technology Inc: Manufacturing Engineer.  

Retirement began exactly on his 62nd birthday, November 20, 2002! Excited for more time to spend outside working with Margie on their 5-acre lot.  

He continued to play softball and football in high school lettering as a sophomore. Adding hockey, which became the sport he liked the best. Gerry also earned ‘Citizenship’ recognition to attend a State held event. Other highlights were buying his first car, fishing, and hunting. Some of his best friends were Jerry McDonald, Gary Pauly, Tony Schmidt, Tex Krump, and John Sayer. Gerry graduated from Wahpeton High School in Wahpeton, North Dakota in 1959.  

Gerry is a U.S. Army Veteran. He served two terms initially in Ft. Riley, Kansas and then was called back to Ft Carson, CO with active duty for the Berlin Crises. While in the service, buddies were Kurt Rocksvold and Duyane Peterson with whom he remained in continued contact with. Gerry achieved the rank of E5 and an Honorable discharge. 
 
On May 30,1964 Gerry married Marjorie Josephine Zavadil at St Mary's Catholic Church of Alexandria, MN. They were blessed with four children. Sons: Mark Wayne (deceased), Gregory Duane and Allen Charles. Daughter: Pamela Marie. They were also blessed with 7 Grandchildren: Elizabeth, Cole, Kassandra, Luke, Gabrielle, Kiley, and Carsen. One Great Grandson: Adrian. 

Gerald Duane was born at St. Frances Hospital in Wilken County, Breckenridge, MN on November 20,1940 at 12:15 a.m. He is the son of Kenneth Anthony & Lerna Drucilla (Snyder) Richels. Ken was age 24 and Lerna was age 22 when he was born. Gerry joined an older brother, Robert Eugene ‘Gene’ age 5. Then brother, Michael Lynn came 3 years after and third brother, James Kenneth a year later. Gerry was raised between the cities of Breckenridge and Fergus Falls, MN & Wahpeton, ND living primarily in rural farm areas.  
 
As a young boy growing up, Gerry was involved in 4H and enjoyed caring for animals especially his steer calves that he showed at the county fair. He played softball, football, and basketball.  He also liked to garden, fish and learned woodworking.  

Dad liked when it was a Birthday or Holiday and the family would be over for a gathering. Dad & I are very proud of Greg, Pam & Allen’s accomplishments that they achieved. Dad enjoyed playing with the grandchildren especially when we had the chance to babysit.  We were blessed with 3 grandchildren within one years time. One child from each family. Dad also enjoyed going to the games/activities for Greg, Pam & Allen & for all of our grandchildren & great grandson.  Dad was also very much a sports fan for the Twins & Vikings.

We had some hard times, but we believed in God & we worked together to get through everything.  It was hard when Gerry’s Dad died of a heart attack & Gerry’s Mom from pneumonia. We all pulled together with God’s help.  

Dad gave me a Kiss Goodnight every night I miss Dad so very much. I have an empty feeling in my stomach that does not go away,  Dad & I knew each other for 58 yrs.  My message to all of you:

‘ENJOY EACH DAY TOGETHER TO ITS FULLEST.  YOU DO NOT KNOW WHEN THIS CAN CHANGE IN A BLINK OF AN EYE’

LOVE TO YOU ALL & GOD BLESS,
MOM  - MARGIE  -  GRANDMA   -  GREAT GRANDMA



July 1997, we had a bad storm & lost our trees in the front & back yard except for 1 tree.  We missed our trees so we started to look for a different place to live.  Greg, Pam & Allen were married by this time & we were alone in this house.  We found our new home by driving on Radisson Rd. & saw a wooden sign on a tree with a tele. #.  We called & purchased this 5 acre lot at 12020 Radisson Rd NE, Blaine, Mn.  1998 we had Gorham Builders build our house & Oct. 1998 (MEA weekend) we moved into our new home.  Dad loved to work in the yard every day. This was his pride & joy.  He planted several trees from seedlings that he would find in the woods. He trimmed many trees, we would cut up the wood, split it & sell for peanuts. Dad also carved a cross on a tree stump by the edge of our property by Radisson Rd. We had many walkers stop & complement Dad for the nice carving he did.

Another outdoor interest of Dads was hunting with his brother, Jim. Then after retirement, deer hunting with Greg and Cole. Dad also spent many hours watching photos on his trail camera of the animals that came to eat at the apple tree.

Dad & I loved to go to places throughout the state and twice to Branson, MO where there was old time music.  We liked to dance polkas & waltzes.

We did many projects together. I am so thankful that Dad and I put our slides onto a flash drive when Greg, Pam & Allen were little. Also when Dad’s Mom passed we were given the photos of Dad when he was little & growing up through Graduation & the Army.  Dad helped me label & put into a photo album.


Allen was born 8-20-1973 at Unity Hospital, Fridley, MN by normal C-Section.

For about 10 years, Dad and I had our weekend date on a bowling league Saturday nights with Uncle John and Aunt Sylvia at Maple Lanes Bowling Alley in Fridley. (We still have our bowling balls but they are now painted as a work of art, one is a baseball and the other is a ladybug). During this time (1967-1974) Dad was also involved with the Knights of Columbus through Epiphany Church.  

Then in 1973 more time was focused on activities that you kids were involved in when Dad began coaching for Greg with T-Ball. This continued during many seasons of hockey, baseball and soccer for Greg, Pam and Allen through 1984, which Dad really enjoyed.

March 1975 Dad started working for Thomas Engineering, Brooklyn Center,  as an Estimator for tooling.

October 1978, Dad transitioned to work for Resistance Technology, Inc. (RTI), St. Paul, Mn. Jerry McDonald was his Boss.  Dad worked up the scale from Foreman to Production Manager to Product Engineer to Production Engineer to Manufacturing Engineer. Dad worked here for 24 yrs. & he retired on his birthday Nov.20, 2002, when he turned 62 yrs. As a Senior Mechanical Engineer.

In 1982, we purchased a motor home. We went on many trips. Was nice to pack everything from our clothes to food into the motor home as we made several meals & could also sleep in the motor home.



When we were at my parents home in Alexandria, Dad would go to Arnie’s farm & help him with what ever needed to get done. Dad enjoyed working as a farmer when he could.

Greg was born June 8, 1966 at Abbott NW Hosp. By normal C-section.

Sept. 1966, Dad’s job with Telex, Co. was transferred to Glencoe, Mn.  We moved into an apartment close by, so Dad walked to work almost every day & some days came home for lunch. Glencoe was a nice little town & we enjoyed meeting many families.

Pam was born 10-14-1967 at the Glencoe Hosp. By normal C-section.

Dec. 31, 1968, New Year’s Eve Party at Jerry & Darlene McDonald’s home in Blaine, MN. We had a fun time with many of Dad’s friends from Wahpeton.  The next day we looked at the house just down the road from them that was for sale: 12889 Pierce Pl. NE. Within the week we purchased the house & moved in on March 29, 1969.  Dad found a new job with Abel Industries in New Brighton as a Tooling Coordinator/Drafting.  August 1969, I started babysitting for neighbors in the neighborhood & did that for 14 yrs.  April 1971, Dad was laid off through June 1971.  June 22, 1971, Dad started working with Uncle John Snyder (his Moms twin brother) at FMC Corp. in Fridley as an inspector temporarily until August 1971.  For these 3 months, Dad & I had some tough days trying to make ends meet. But we worked things out & did the best we could.  August 1971, Dad started working for Wilbrecht Electronics in St. Paul, as a foreman for the punch press & molding Dept.



Mark was born on my Mom, Lillian Zavadils birthday, 3/23/1965 at Abbott NW Hosp, about 3 weeks early. I had Mark by C-section.  I was not able to hold him, only saw him through the glass. His lungs were not developed & the doctors at this time did not know how to treat this problem. Mark died 3/24/1965. I was in the hospital for a week & could not go to Fort Snelling Cemetery for the burial service. Dad, his Mom & the priest were the only ones there.  This was a very hard time for Dad & myself.

We would often travel monthly or more often going to Wahpeton, ND Friday nights & on our way home we would stop at my parents in Alexandria Saturday, then come home on Sundays. We did this for all the Holidays & many times in between.  It was always so nice to see the families.  

Many 4th of July weeks it was a tradition to rent a cabin on Ottertail Lake & celebrate with Dad’s side of the family.  Some would go fishing, swimming, & there was always fried chicken, potato salad & many other good dishes to eat.  It was always so fun to spend a longer period of time with these relatives as this was often the only time we would see them due to many lived in different states. This group size was 50+ people and we all made reservations year after year and it was a given that we would be at the lake together!



Later that summer we went to Arnie’s for the weekend. When we drove by their neighbors on the farm. Dad said “I was at that place after Margie & John’s wedding that night & ate fresh home made bread.” I knew the family that lived there. I walked to the country school with their kids.  Dad & a couple of the other guys stopped there for a midnight snack that night.

A year later, Sat. May 30, 1964 Dad & I were married at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alexandria, Mn. We were married in the a.m., had dinner in the school cafeteria, opened gifts, took pictures, beer was served, had supper & a dance in the evening at the dance hall in Alexandria.  We had a beautiful wedding day. Stayed in a motel in Glenwood, Mn.  Sunday we stopped at my parents home in Alexandria & then drove home to our apartment in St. Louis Park.  Dad carried me over the threshold before going inside.

At this time Dad was working for Telex, Mpls. as a production engineer. I was working for St. Louis Park Medical Center typing medical notes onto patients records.



Dear Greg & Suzy, Pam & Rodney, Al & Kari:

I have been thinking a lot about Dad the last few days as we are approaching his 82nd Birthday on the 20th of November.  I am writing down Special Memories for you all to have as life goes by swiftly.

Dad & I met at my cousin, Margie Kalina’s wedding, she married John Sayer, a good friend of Dads. The wedding was May 18, 1963 at Lake Reno Catholic Church close to where Arnie’s farm was (between Alexandria & Glenwood) out in the country. Dad was 23 yrs. old & I was 21 yrs. Dad asked me out, I declined as I already had a date for that evening. We exchanged telephone #’s. I was working days in the Medical Arts Building downtown Mpls., for an eye surgeon Dad worked at Honeywell,  evenings.  We both lived South of Lake St. only about 6 blocks apart. Dad asked me during a phone call if I knew how to cook & make a meal. I said YES.  Great, he said cook me a fried chicken dinner, mashed potatoes & apple pie. I did that on a Sunday & then Dad took me to a Twins Game & several dates afterwards. Dad enjoyed my meal.


Grandchildren – Grandpa loved you all so very much.

DAD’S LAST BIRTHDAY CARD TO ME – SO DIFFERENT FROM THE OTHERS!!!

May your life be filled
with Sunshine,
May your rainy days be few
May good fortune walk beside you
Everywhere in all you do . . .
May true friends
Bring you pleasure,
May you find each year is blessed
With laughter
Health & everything
That makes you happiest!!!!

Note from Mom – Each time the stork was coming, we hoped for a little girl – but God didn’t send it our way. Many times Dad & I talked we said, our boys had chosen girls just like we would of liked to had. We think you are great!!!!!

This letter was written by Lerna Richels the year of 1970.


We had 3 wonderful vacations together, 2 trips to California & after 10 years of promising the Minneapolis relatives, we went & how we enjoyed everything planned for us. For some unknown reason, we just wanted to get home.

Dad’s last words to me, “Mom I enjoyed this weekend so much, do come out & see me”  Tuesday morning, September 2, 1969 Ardell Hanson & Father Mehok came to the Center & told me the shocking news, “Dad had a heart attack at 2:30 am.

Ardell said, “Lerna, this is as hard for me as you. He was like a brother to me from the first time he walked into my office. Lerna, he will never be replaced.”

No, children Daddy will never be replaced for any of us, life will go on & heartbreak will be lighter but never be forgotten. I’m so glad he made it back to the top,

Boys – learn to love your fellow man & find some good in even your worst enemy as your father did. Learn to forgive & forget, as Dad always said, “Just wait it out Mom,  it will all come out the way it should.” I’m so happy each of you chose a profession where you can be with your families.  It was not easy to be a Mom & Dad both so many years.

Girls – don’t hesitate to get your dander up & don’t just go along with their wish. It’s good for them to see your strength its a partnership & life together will be a joy.  As I’ve found, its always darkest before the dawn.


Daddy made many friends as you saw at his funeral but, he was not hard enough to be a boss.  This was our worst years financially, I don’t think Dad ever got over it. The money the drivers owed Dad on the books would have covered his obligations but, when they wouldn’t pay Dad couldn’t. Again I finally had to say, “This is it.” He was not happy with me but, I’m sure he wouldn’t have been with us as long as he was had he went on. He drove for 2 ½ years in truck No.31 Coast to Coast. Even a trip to Halifax Nova Schocia.

May 31, 1966, Jim graduated from Grand Forks & left home for Denver, Colorado.

August 28, 1966, we moved to Jamestown as Daddy liked it very well when he was up there for Kurda Mills. I was having problems at my job at St. Francis Home, so applied at Central Dakota Nursing Home to start on Activities program. June 15, 1967, we move back to Wahpeton for the Senior Citizen Project.

December 15, 1968 Dad called me from Jamestown saying, Mom, when I get in tonight I’m going to have to tell Ardell this is it, I don’t know what I’ll do but I can’t go on driving. When he came home that night he had been asked to be the dispatcher before he could tell Ardell he had to quit,

How happy we were, that night at the Eagles, Kenny Bakers band played. Kenny & Dad were good friends. He dedicated a number to a brother Eagle who had just got a white collar job. How embarrassed Dad was.

January 1, 1969 he began as a dispatcher.  He was devoted to anything he ever did, the men just idolized him & told him over & over he had made truck driving a real pleasure as they always knew he would be there & they knew for the first time when & where they were going.

Children, many times I wanted to move out there but he would always say NO, we will take this slow. July I, 1970 is soon enough & time goes so fast, we will do just what we want together 24 hrs. a day for the first time.



October 1, Jimmy was stricken with Rheumatic Fever. It was the first serious illness in our family. Due to good medications he was back to school February 19, 1957.

When we came back from Fergus Falls, we joined several clubs & bowled each in a different team. One night we were passing in the doorway each to go to a different meeting, we stopped & said, is this what we want??  Let’s do something where we can be together, so we started 14 years of Square Dancing. Daddy learned to call soon after that, & how he enjoyed that. We made many friends especially happy with the 2 years of teaching 8-13 year olds. Our 8 year olds including Tommy, Larry & Peggy Richels, Jim & Mike. They were perfect square dancers.

It was a great thrill when we started the wheelchair dancing with Grandma Snyder as some of the dancers. This is carried on through many Nursing Homes stemming from your Dad’s patience. Everyone has some kind of recreation & this is ours.

In 1959, Gerry graduated & left home going into the service. Dad was a dispatcher for Garrett (Breck Grain Truck Dispatch) for 2 years, 1966.

In 1961, Michael left school & went into the service. How Daddy cried when we got the letter that Mike had been hurt in one of his parachute jumps as he transferred to the paratroopers.  From then on he seemed to cry so easy as he did when Gerry & Margie’s baby died.

He worked for 3 months for Kurda Mills buying screenings. It didn’t pay out for the Company – he was so discouraged after 2 ½ months., he went out to Melroe Co. & signed up for Dispatcher Work.  He & Ardell came down from his office visiting as if they had been friends for years. Melroe didn’t think another dispatcher was needed so he started driving.



It was sorta sad as he would come & look through the window & as you boys were so close & because Gene had to take Dad’s place so many times, everyone including myself would be crying when he left.

Finally August 1945 that terrible life was over & Dad was safely home with us again. I only weighed 118 lbs. He worked one more year for Albin Johnson & he & Babe Richels bought a truck & tried trucking alone. Babe only stayed 6 months as it wasn’t enough for both. Dad traded that truck for a nearly new single axle 12 foot box truck.  A big one in those days. He began talking farming in the service & we heard about the 80 acre farm, so off we moved to the Heley Farm in the Fall of 1947. It was greatest years of closeness for us. We had many good times & many very hard ones. All of you went to Fergus Falls School. We were really saddened when Gene quit school & went into the service, January 11, 1954. I hope & I am sure you boys have your own memories of those days. I know I was a hard Mother to live with but, as you get older & think about it, I was pretty much left to farm with you boys & the old machinery, cows to see to. Everyone around us had the best of machinery.

Very frankly, boys it was very embarrassing to me many times, my nerves were at a high pitch & I know it was hard for you, too.  So many times I had to lay the law down so to speak & here again.  I did speak, I went to work, this I knew when I did it would get Daddy’s goat the soonest of anything. And I said that I wouldn’t stay another winter here, so after 8 years we decided to move back to Wahpeton the Fall of 1955.  Heine & Babe had just bought the Slitz Beer Business so Dad was to haul the beer & he stayed only 1 year, 1956.


November 1, 1940 we moved to a small square house on 11th Street in Breckenridge, how happy we were. He worked for Schuler Grain Co for 1 year, 1941. He had watched Albin Johnson trucks all new, coming & going, how Dad disliked quitting someone. Mr. Schuler said, try it & you can come back if it doesn’t work out. So that November day off, he was with a new truck & successful he was. Soon he was the top man, Albin was so happy with him.

Then the great shock on April 1, I went to get the mail & there it was a call to the service. Wild tears & fear came inside of me. When he got home he too was pretty shocked. I said, can’t you get a deferment. Unknown to me Albin had gotten him one deferment. He said, No Mom, I will have to go, so April 28, 1943 he left for Camp Walters Texas & I was pregnant with Jimmy and nightmare is all I can say.

September 1, he came home for a furlough. October 2, he was in the front lines in Belgium, 1 week of training was all he had. While in training he got a merit & had to put on a demonstration with the Boozuka Gun, this is what he carried through the war until (two had to go together). They had been in a fox hole for 3 days. His buddy said let’s change I’ll carry the Boozuka & you the ammunition when they started out he fell back in the hole killed. Dad had to give up then. He then was a scout going ahead & telephoning the positions back. While at this, he never told me much about it, they received the Presidential Citation Unit. Dad always wrote, this means nothing all I’m doing is trying to get home safe back to my wonderful wife & boys.  Jimmy was 1 years old when Dad saw him for the first time. I had an appendicitis surgery & we had a siege of Scarlet Fever. Gerry, Michael & Jim followed by Chicken Pox. Six weeks I wasn’t out of the house. Gene always went & stayed with Grandpa & Grandma Snyder as we needed him to come & do the chores & bring the groceries home. He didn’t have any of this, he had Chicken Pox when he was younger.



Dear Children:

This Sunday afternoon as I sit here reminiscing after I have gone through the many keepsakes, I thought it would be nice to write a few special memories down for you to have as life goes swiftly by.

Daddy & I met very young, I was 14 & he was 16 years old. We met at a house party which several families gave on Friday nights as there was very few places we could go those days. Only after having been at a few meetings, Daddy told his cousin walking home from an afternoon gathering, “That’s the girl for me.” Although we both had other dates we never meant that the stranger feeling wasn’t there. He signed his letters & cards “Always Yours.” Ken, No truer words were ever spoken, Yes, we had many hardships. They never seemed so hard when we were together – those many hours apart as there were many with his service and work.

Trucking was truly his life. I still remember the night he took me to the car lot & showed me the truck he wanted. It didn’t come for many years after.

We were married a cold, cold Tuesday morning at 10 am at St. John’s Church so cold my white roses were yellow when we got out of church, November 22, 1938.

Dad worked in the fall at Swift & Co. following that we lived at Grandpa & Grandma Snyder until November 1, 1940.  Grandpa had an old Ford Truck which each Fall, Dad would get ready to haul grain so he got the feel of trucks there. We farmed with horses. He had them shining always. He had a favorite team he would always have red towels made of red yarn hanging on each bridle. It was almost a sacrifice to buy this yarn in those days, & of course, Grandpa thought it was silly.



In closing, I would like to share a poem from a card I have had for several years and felt it applied nicely as a tribute to Dad. (There is no author listed to give credit to, but it is on a Hallmark card).
					“The Oak Tree”
A mighty wind blew night and day.
It stole the oak tree’s leaves away,
Then snapped its boughs and pulled its bark
Until the oak was tired and stark.
But still the oak tree held its ground
While other trees fell all around.
The weary wind gave up and spoke,
“How can you still be standing, Oak?”
The oak tree said, “I know that you
Can break each branch of mine in two,
Carry every leaf away,
Shake my limbs, and make me sway.
But I have roots stretched in the earth,
Growing stronger since my birth.
You’ll never touch them, for you see,
They are the deepest part of me.
Until today, I wasn’t sure
Of just how much I could endure.
But now I’ve found, with thanks to you,
I’m stronger than I ever knew.”

So, Dad, as far as “the plan,” Yours is now complete. We are reassured knowing you have all the air you need to breathe easy. I look forward to dancing again with you someday, minus the walker between us of course.

Again, thank you all for being here today and as we enjoy fellowship and a meal together we will leave the microphone open for anyone else to share a memory of Gerry.
                                                                 
~ Pam Gillund 12/10/2021


Other activities Gerry enjoyed was his annual deer hunting. Life is a lot like a day in the woods, it has a beginning and an end; a sunrise and sunset. As recently as 4 days before Dad began to feel mild shortness of breath he was climbing a tree to his deer stand. The photo on the back of todays program was taken then. His recent illness began almost as suddenly as it ended. Within a day he was needing hospitalization for oxygen which was started on Thanksgiving. However, he stayed brave, strong and trusting faithfully with all signs showing improvement over the next week, likely to be out of ICU within a few days. Al and I were so very appreciative to be granted Dr permission to be with Dad for support and encouragement. He enjoyed working on puzzles to keep busy and one of the things he most enjoyed was listening to country oldies with the goal to stand at his walker long enough to get through a whole song without getting winded. Most of all though, Dad looked forward to the daily window visits from Mom and Greg and face timing with grandchildren when phone calls got harder. Gerry, being pretty particular at times, was very much a detailed person. He wanted his watch on, kept track of his vitals in his head, wrote notes on a clipboard and frequently asked “so, whats the plan?” He was not one to be too idle. Mid Sunday afternoon unfortunately took a turn and it was too hard for Dads breathing to recover. In 2 Kings 20:5 God says “I have heard your prayers and seen your tears and I will heal you.” Revelations 2:10 tells us “be faithful even to the point of death and I will giver you the crown of life.” Well done Dad! We are grateful that his mind was strong and able to engage in conversation or actions with us knowing fully we were all there with him.

In 1998, my parents moved a few miles down the road from one Blaine home to their current home excited to now have 5 acres, and are most happy spending time in their yard digging in the dirt, gardening, landscaping and caring for the 20 plus 100 year old oak trees! They truly feel a strong bond to the great outdoors – it is a very special gift from God


Dad was passionate for youth sports and coached all 3 of us in whatever sports we enjoyed. His favorite was hockey and spent countless hours flooding our backyard rink for many years.  He enjoyed cheering on 3 generations of Blaine hockey and his favorite color is Bengal Blue!

Although my Dads siblings were in different states, family gatherings were of high priority, even though they were not as often as desired they were BIG celebrations when they did happen! Some highlights include the 4th of July tradition in the Ottertail Lake area, the historic road trip to Lake Tahoe and several family reunions. Holidays were spent driving from one part of the state to another to be with the Richels and Zavadils as well as the Snyder and Arne families. My parents have enjoyed organizing family history/geneology, scrapbooking photo albums before it was the thing to do and we are so grateful for these keepsake treasures they share with us.


My parents met at a wedding reception at a small country church in Lake Reno Township, MN. How my Dad told the story was that my Mom was leaving, walking across the parking lot when he hollered to her “hey, the party’s over here” they went back in and enjoyed the dance learning they both were originally from Northwestern MN area but currently living in the Twin Cities and exchanged numbers. One worked days and the other evenings at the time but eventually they had a second date with my Dad asking if she could cook. She said , “well, I know how to do that.” The deal was that Mom would cook Dads favorite meal of fried chicken, mashed potatoes with gravy and apple pie. If he liked it, he would take her to a movie of her choice and the Twins game. He did, and that was the start of 57 years of marriage. They continued to enjoy dancing as one of their favorite things to do and the reason we are serving the apple bars today.

Growing up, Dad had a gentle, humble and loving way to be a role model of having God #1 in guiding our lives. It was so meaningful to him to receive holy communion last Sunday in the hospital and little did he know at the time it was to be just hours before he passed.

Gerry worked as a manufacturing engineer with Residence Technology Inc along side his good friend from High School Jerry McDonald until his retirement in 2002 exactly on the day of his 62nd birthday.




On behalf of my Mom, myself, my brothers Greg, and Al, we would like to thank you so very much for your presence with us today as we celebrate the life of Gerry Richels: Son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. We are also comforted knowing so many others are joining us virtually as well.

Gerry Richels, age 81, a 52 year resident of Blaine, MN was reunited with the Lord on December 5, 2021. Preceded in death by his parents, Ken and Lerna; son Mark; brothers Mike and Jim.

Survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Margie Richels; children, Greg (Suzy) Richels; Pam (Rodney) Gillund and Al (Kari) Richels; seven grandchildren, Elizabeth, Cole, Kassi, Luke, Gabby, Kiley, Carsen; One Great- Grandson, Adrian; brother, Bob “Gene” (Sharon); and many other relatives and friends.

Gerry enjoyed the outdoors and took great pride in having a well-manicured lawn. He was a devoted Catholic and enjoyed giving back to others through volunteering. Spending time with his family was one of his greatest joys which included attending his children and grandchildren’s activities and sporting events.

Gerry was born in Breckenridge, MN and graduated high school in Wahpeton, ND. He was drafted into the Army serving 2 years then 6 months later called back to active duty for the Berlin Crisis.



Gospel: John 14: 1-6

At the last supper Jesus said to his apostles, “Do not let your hearts be troubled.  You have faith in God; have faith also in me.  In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places.  If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be.  Where I am going you know the way.”  Thomas said to him, “ Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?”  Jesus said to him, “I am the way and the truth and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Prep of Gifts: I Look to the Shepherd
Communion: I Shall Be Healed
Final Commendation/Song of Farewell: Prayer of St. Francis
Closing: Amazing Grace
Postlude:  The Dwelling of God is Among You


Prelude: Tender Mercy, God Alone, Blessed Assurance
Entrance: How Great Thou Art
First Reading:  Isaiah 40: 28-31     (Read by Kassi Richels)
     Have you never heard? Have you never understood?  The Lord is the everlasting God. The Creator of all the earth, He never grows weak or weary.  No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired.  And young men will fall in exhaustion.  But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength.  They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary.  They will walk and not grow faint.
Psalm: On Eagle’s Wings
Second Reading: Revelation 21:  1-7    (Read by Kiley Richels)
     Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. And I saw the holy city, the New Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people.  God himself will be with them.  He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying pain. All these things are gone forever.” And the one sitting on the throne said, Look I am making everything new!” And then he said to me, “Write this down, for what I tell you is trustworthy and true.”  And he also said, “It is finished!  I am the Alpha and the Omega – The Beginning and the End. To all who are thirsty I will give freely from the springs of the water of life.  All who are victorious will inherit all these blessings, and I will be their God, and they will be my children.


There aren't adequate words to express our sympathy.  Gerry was a very special man, a great husband and father and a dear friend.  We hope your many memories comfort you and the promise of eternal life.   God Bless you.

We understand Gerry was meticulous when it came to his yard.  Therefore, we are sure he loved the outdoors.  In his honor and memory, we are giving a donation to Arbor Day Foundation.  Trees will be planted in memory of his legacy on this earth.

Dear Margie,

I am so sorry Gerry is not with you on earth.  What a blessing he has been to his family and all in his company.  The online service was heart warming in prayer, song, readings and gentle snowfall.
Your family will be in my heart always.

In Memory of Gerald D. Richels:

3 Bibles will be distributed by members of the "Gideons International to help transform lives through the work of God.

My thoughts and prayers are with you as you mourn the loss of your loved one, Gerald.  You two are a special couple I got to know at Epiphany.  I did not know at the time or I would have been at the funeral. God Bless you all.
A $10.00 donation will be made to the Reiser Relief, Inc. in memory of Gerald Richels.  It will help the poor in Haiti.

This card says everything that I could say.  Gerry was a great friend and will always be remembered  ( Army buddy)

This card read:   So sorry for Your Loss.  The memories that come to mind as we think of your loved one will always bring a smile.  They filled a place in our hearts that no one else can fill.  With sympathy and a prayer that God will bring you comfort as only He can do.

Uncle Gerry was a great man.  He always treated me as a part of the family.  My dad, grandma, grandpa and Uncle Jim are having a great time in Heaven.

12-5-2021,  Our incredible Grandpa Gerry
Our greatest fan - from birthdays and holidays, to dance competitions to graduations, he never missed a moment to celebrate our accomplishments, big events, and the little things in between.  Grateful for these memories shared and the promise of eternal life.

Heaven gained an incredible man last night.  Gerry will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.  He was so incredibly kind, loving, supportive and hard working.  He always put God and his family first.  He was his grandkids biggest fan.  Life won't ever be the same without him.

I can't believe it was just 3 weeks ago we were hunting and you were climbing up your 17 foot ladder stand.  I am going to miss you grandpa.  I love you.  


Dear Margie and Family,
We were sadden to hear of Gerry's passing.  Our thoughts and prayers for comfort and peace are with you during this difficult time.

My recollection of Ottertail Lake and all of us cousins sleeping in the back of Uncle Ken's grain truck at the 4th of July celebrations.   
The times spent with my cousins in Minnesota fishing, swimming, and playing games are some of my fondest memories. 

Our Best to you and your family,
Paul and Margo Snyder


Dear Margie and family...
I am sending my sympathy to you and your family. I remember a very soft spoken cousin whom I haven't seen in a long time but
 the pictures you posted showed a fun loving man and family. 
I also regret not getting together when we met at The Otter 
several years ago.
I am sure God is taking good care of Gerry and will take good care of you too!

My sympathy to Margie and the kids.  Was quite a shocker.  I can imagine Gerry with Jim & Mike on a boat fishing and sharing a beer.
When really down and mourning, remember the good times.  It helps.

Love to all,

Marlene

Dearest Margie and family, I cannot tell you how very, very sad it was to receive the call this morning about Gerry.  I was JUST thinking about him and Margie as I was getting ready to send out Christmas cards. Back in Sept 2019, by mere accident (or should I say God-send) we reconnected at an All-Class Reunion in Wahpeton, ND. Gerry is the cousin of my late husband Jim Werner and hadn't seen them since our wedding in 1967.  I went out to their house later that fall where they shared many, many memories and photos of long ago.  I was blessed to join them at a hockey game for their grandson that winter. But then COVID hit and we didn't connect again.   The joy and welcoming spirit of Gerry will be long remembered and treasured.  My deepest sympathies to all - sending lots of love and hugs. 

Visitation

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial

Wife, Margie Richels;
Children, Greg (Suzy) Richels, Pam (Rodney) Gillund, and Al (Kari) Richels;
Seven Grandchildren, Elizabeth, Cole, Kassi, Luke, Gabby, Kiley, Carsen;
One Great-grandson, Adrian;
Brother, Bob “Gene” (Sharon);
also survived by many other relatives and friends.

OBITUARY

Gerry Richels

20 November, 1940 – 5 December, 2021

Gearhart Funeral Home

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