Gary R. Wandrey, age 75, passed away surrounded by family August 8, 2024 in Owatonna, MN. Gary was born November 9, 1948, the second child of Alfred and Thedora (Valentyn) Wandrey. He attended St. Mary's School through 8th grade, he attended Dodge Center High School, Foothill High School (Bakersfield, CA), Brainerd High School and Owatonna High School.
He joined the US Army April 3, 1967. September 1967 he was sent to Vietnam serving through September 1968. He returned to Ft. Lewis near Tacoma, Washington. From there, he served in Germany (1970) and Vietnam (1971). In March of 1972 he was wounded and returned to the states. He served until December 1980. In 1985, he returned to the military, joining the Army Reserves until retiring in 1993 with 21 years served.
July 9,1983, he married the love of his life Rita (Rysavy) Wandrey, together they had two children. Gary worked as a truck driver with many area companies including Norseman Trucking, Dietrich Trucking and Johnson Bros. Trucking. He retired from Gallea Transfer, Owatonna, with 21 years of service.
Gary was a life member of Owatonna Knights of Columbus Council 945 and Henry Speck 4th Degree Assembly 2300. He was also a Life member of V.F.W., Owatonna and Purple Heart Society. He was a Quilt of Valor recipient in May 2024.
He enjoyed camping, hunting, trap shooting, participating in the Big Island Rendezvous, and especially spending time with his children and grandchildren.
Gary is survived by his wife Rita; children, Tricia (James) Edmonson, Kellie (Thomas) Mabin, Gary S. Wandrey, Regina (Keith) Hawk, Jamie (Jessica) Wandrey, Holly (John) Anderson and Jonathon (Teresa) Wandrey; 19 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; siblings, Brian (Nan) Wandrey, Allienne (Odean) Haarstad, Sandy Beaudoin, Dennis (Debbie) Wandrey, Dianne (Freddie) Engelhart, Greg Wandrey, LaRayne Wandrey and Patty Wandrey.
Mass of Christian Burial is August 13, 2024, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Litomysl. Military honors will be provided by the Steele County Funeral Unit.
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