Gary L. Madson

Madson, Gary Lynn age 78 of Long Lake, MN: April 27, 1947 – June 9, 2025. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gary Lynn Madson, who was overcome in his battle with ALS on June 9, 2025. As a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather he was welcomed home by his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His love, kindness and remarkable spirit touched the lives of all who knew him.

Gary was born on April 27, 1947 at Albert Lea, MN. to Clarence & Eva Madson. The youngest of 5 boys, Gary enjoyed hunting with his brothers, and fishing & golfing with family and friends. He enjoyed cooking with and for his family, a wide variety of music, spending time up north and wildlife, always aware of wildlife, no matter where they lived. Gary, a native of Emmons, MN, graduated from Emmons High School and Mankato State College with degrees in Biology, Chemistry and Business. He married his high school sweetheart, Kathy Monson, in 1968 and they were blessed by the nearly 57 years of love and happiness they shared. While his intention was to pursue a career in conservation, he joined Wilson Foods Corporation at Albert Lea in 1973 and began his life-long career as a salesman. Gary’s honest and sincere approach to getting the job done right was through detailed attention to customer service. He soon moved on to sales positions in North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma City and Dallas, Texas, before returning to Minnesota to handle Regional Sales for the Deli Division. This was after selling everything the company produced including retail and deli products, including responsibilities in National Account Sales.

Gary loved the Lord, his wife and family and always made sure a church was found wherever they moved to. He served as an elder in several churches and along with his wife, Kate always participated in bible study.
Gary is survived by his wife Kathy (Kate), 3 children: son Christopher, his sons (David, Jon), and daughter Kellie and her children (Ava & Austin); son James, wife Tammy, and their daughter (Emma); and daughter Melissa; (son Justus,) his wife Anna and their daughter (Jeanie); and Melissa’s daughter, Journey. He is survived by brother, Charles and his wife Judy; sister-in-law, Henrietta Madson and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by brothers, Howard & his wife, Carol, Duane, Robert and his wife, Dorothy, and his parents. We want to thank Ecumen Hospice, Twin Cities for their compassionate care.
Our love to Gary, we miss you and will cherish your memory – Always & Forever. Initial visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 15 at Rettinger Funeral Home, 5-7pm in Long Lake, MN. (952) 473-6954. Celebration of Life will be held at Emmons Lutheran Church, Emmons, MN. (507) 297- 5471, date is TBD. Memorials to Minnesota Conservation Volunteer.

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