Gary Gutzmer

Gary E. Gutzmer, 68, Wahpeton, ND. passed away Monday, June 18, 2012, at St. Catherine's Living Center, Wahpeton, ND. The Funeral Service will be Friday, June 22, 10:30 a.m., at Evergreen United Methodist Church, Wahpeton, with Rev. Jenny Hallenbeck officiating. Visitation will be Thursday, from 5 PM to 7 PM with a 7 PM Prayer Service at Vertin-Munson Funeral Home, Wahpeton and one hour before the service at the church on Friday. Interment will be at Riverside Cemetery, Wahpeton.

Gary Elroy Gutzmer was born December 29, 1943, in Wahpeton, ND, the son of Elroy and Doris (Stoltenow) Gutzmer. He grew up in Summit Township on the family farm where he attended a one room school house. He graduated from Wahpeton High School. He farmed with his father and on November 30, 1963, he married Constance Caspers in Breckenridge, MN.

In 1966 he and his father started Gutzmer Construction and later his sons joined them in the Construction Company and farm. Gary was considered by many to be a master carpenter. Poor health forced him to retire in 2007 and he entered St. Catherine's Living Center in 2009.

Gary was a member of Evergreen United Methodist Church. He was very active in the Wahpeton Hockey, and the building of the Sterns Arena; donating many hours of time and skills. He loved the outdoors and spending time with his family hunting, camping and attending sporting events. He enjoyed working with his hands, especially the last few years with his crafts.

Gary is survived by his wife, Connie, Wahpeton; his two sons a daughter; Troy (Charlotte) Gutzmer, Breckenridge, MN; Lynn (Shana) Gutzmer, Wahpeton; Beth (Dan) Klebe, Willow City, ND; 11 grandchildren: Toni, Maggie, Demi; Jordan Lanie Alex; Payten, Jesse, Madison, Erin and Lucas; his sister, Judy McLeod, North St. Paul, MN; niece Cheryl (Rich) Duysen, Moorhead, MN: nephew, Curt (Lynette) McLeod, Vadnais, Heights, MN.

He was preceded in death by his parents.