Garry A Gilberg

Garry Alan Gilberg, (79) passed quietly in his sleep at his daughter’s home. He was born in Helena, MT, raised in Columbia Heights, began electrical contracting in River Falls, WI, raised his family in Stillwater, MN, and grandfathered in Austin, MN and Bemidji, MN

Garry is survived by Sara, the love of his life and his wife of 54 years, his children Greta Sikorski (James), Erica Munson (Scott), Loren Gilberg (Melynda), Russel Gilberg (Grace), William Gilberg (Lauren Carlson) and nine rascal grandchildren Veronica and Ilias Sikorski, Murphy and Mae Munson, George and Oliver Gilberg, Beatrix, Axel, and Gus Gilberg, plus honorary grandchild Gordon Spindler; his best friend/brother Timm Spindler (Helen and Gordon Spindler), his sister Roni Gilberg, and many other treasured family and friends, especially Corky, Joe, Amie, Alice & Rachel. He is also greatly missed by his constant pooch companions Ike and Ole. Garry was preceded in death by his parents, Verona and Hubert Gilberg Sr., his in-laws, Ruth and Gordon Spindler, and his brother Hubert Gilberg Jr..

Garry was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was a cherished chosen father to many. He was known for his generous bearhugs, creativity and kind heart. He loved to roughhouse with his children and tell amazing stories about the Royal Gilberg Family, who had epic struggles with wicked witches and mean neighbors. The stories often mirrored the family’s life, guiding them through challenges and triumphs with humour, creativity, and grace. Favorite family past-times included family trips to the boundary waters, coaching little league, Camp Fire, Tai Kwon Do with Will, time at the lake and lots of great walks.

Garry served in the Navy from 1964-1967. He was a Seabee, stationed in Adak, Alaska and Vietnam. His Vietnam experience led him to become a Veteran for Peace. Garry carried his Seabee training as an electrician throughout his life. A creative problem solver and designer, he was an ethical and respected master electrician, and late career electrical inspector. In 1978, Garry and Sara founded and operated Summit Electric Corp for 30 years, building a shop of loyal, much-loved employees.

Garry greeted the world with kindness and was always there to offer support. An inventive problem solver, he was intent on making things right. His solutions were multifaceted and creative, displaying the unorthodox thinking that he was known for. His family and friends termed these solutions as ”Garryrigging” - a mixture of brilliance, creativity, and a little (or a lot of) frustration. Everything happened on “Gilberg time”.

Garry loved the outdoors and fishing, although he probably liked to complain more about all the fish he didn’t catch than brag about the ones he did. He and Sara moved to Bemidji in 2020, where he often could be found on his boat, sharing the beauty of the lake, helping to collect water data for the DNR, and giving rides to guests. He was a happy member of the ROMEOS (Retired Old Men Eating Out) and best loved coming home to his wife Sara after a day on the lake. More than anything, he treasured his time with Sara, his five children and their families.

Garry’s celebration of life will be held on Sunday, March 29th, 2026. Memorials can be made in Garry’s name to the Austin Izaak Walton League, ℅ Jim and Merlene Stiles, 1903 5th Ave NW, Austin, MN 55912, which provides scholarships for youth to learn about and practice environmental conservation.

B. January 12th, 1947, D. March 5th, 2026