Gary Jon VanRyswyk Sr.

Age 79 of Florida; formerly of Deer River, MN & Albert Lea, MN. Loving Dad, Grandpa, Great-Grandpa & Brother, passed away on August 25, 2024. Preceded in death by parents, Donald brother, Larry. Survived by children, Rachel (Brett) Brisbois, Jon; grandchildren, Brendan, Remington (Brie), Gabriel (Kayla), Cole; great-grandson, Trevor; sister, Lori (Rich) Rippentrop; sister-in-law, Connie; nieces, nephews, other relatives & friends. Gary grew up on the family farm in Albert Lea. He then went on to the University of Minnesota where he graduated with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering. Following graduation he served honorably in the Vietnam War. When he returned from war, he took a job at Metro Transit, where he would continue to work for 26 years until retirement. Gary was a passionate singer. He would sing for his friends, family and church. He joined the Blandin Male Chorus in Grand Rapids. He also enjoyed dressing up as Santa Claus and singing Christmas Carols to his bus passengers. His time living in Deer River also brought him the joy of the outdoors, especially fishing on Deer Lake. A celebration of Gary’s life 1 PM Sunday, September 8th with visitation beginning at 12 PM at Roberts Family Funeral Home, Forest Lake. Interment 1:30 PM Monday, September 9th at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, assembly area #4.