Gary Richard White

Known for his kindness, positive outlook, and love of sports, Gary touched the lives of all who knew him. Born December 19, 1941, to parents Donald and Vera White, he grew up in Detroit Lakes, MN, and graduated from Detroit Lakes High School and North Dakota State University Class of 1965.

In 1962, Gary married the love of his life, Karen Lee, and together they had four children: Donald, Scott, Cheryl and Jennifer. Gary and Karen were devoted partners for 56 wonderful years.

Gary’s career took the family to many parts of the United States, including Pennsylvania, New York, South Carolina, North Dakota and eventually back to Minnesota. He was greatly respected by those with whom he worked. As he approached retirement, Gary and son, Don, got into farming, settling near Bluffton, MN in 2001. He was most at home in the seat of his beloved John Deere 60 tractor, working the fields. He became an expert fence builder, stringing many miles of fence line. Gary developed a love for cattle and enjoyed sharing the fruits of his labor.

Throughout his career, Gary held many titles, but his greatest was being Dad, Grandpa, G-pa and Uncle to those whom he loved. Gary is survived by his sons, Don (Tonja) and Scott (Marsha), and daughter Cheryl, grandchildren: Alexander White, Jenna (Kacee) Skoog, Abby White, Emilee (Sampsen) White Feela, Jeremy (Veronica) Marpoe, Anthony and Devin Sazama great grandchildren: Liam Marpoe, Tracer, Riggs and Maren Skoog, nieces: Cindi (Jeanne) Wegner, Lori (Bruce) Anthony, nephew Todd (Susan) Wegner, great nephews: Matthew (Alex) and Adam Wegner, Joshua, David and Caleb Anthony, as well as many beloved friends who quickly became part of the family.

Gary was preceded in death by beloved wife Karen, daughter Jennifer, parents Don and Vera White, an infant brother, sister Mary, brother in law Garmen (Gus), and many beloved four-legged friends, including Cookie, Samantha, Sarah and Gracie.

A memorial service for Gary will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 1:00 pm with visitation one hour prior to service, from 12 pm - 1 pm, at Christ Episcopal Church of Woodbury, located at 7305 Afton Rd, Woodbury, MN.

Internment at Oak Grove Cemetery, Detroit Lakes, MN, will take place in summer 2026.