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Gary J. Strong Blaine, MN QCWA # 33718 Chapter 8 |
Strong, Gary J. 54, from Blaine, MN "flew west" in Minneapolis, MN, on January 18 surrounded by loved ones.
Preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Cordelia Strong; brother, William, and sister, Delia. He is survived by his soul mate, Tena; daughters, Angela (Larry) DeMarais and Lynn (Tony) Dannibale; son, Corey (Joanna); grandchildren, Jacob, Abby, Devon, Nicholas, and Mora; siblings, Noel (Sara), Kenneth, and Ellen (Matt) Dillard, and many family and friends.
Gary was born on May 3, 1957, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He graduated from Highland Park High School, Topeka, Kansas. Gary obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration from Baker University in Baldwin, Kansas. He then received his Master of Finance from Saint Bonaventure University in Saint Bonaventure, New York.
Gary acquired his journeyman electrical license from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union 226 Topeka, Kansas; his amateur radio operator's license currently registered with Twin Cities Dx Association as KO0Q presiding as Secretary/Treasurer; his private pilot license from Benton, Kansas; along with several other certifications and memberships. Throughout his career he had the privilege to serve on several boards; he was currently serving on the board for Goodin Company based out of Minneapolis, MN.
He was a hospital administrator in multiple cities; his most recent were with Fairview Health Services and Allina Hospitals and Clinics both located in Minnesota, and West Penn Allegheny Health System located in Pennsylvania.
Gary had a variety of different interest and hobbies. Two of his favorite hobbies were flying his plane and spending time at his hanger.
However, his greatest passion was spending time with his grandchildren; be it riding bikes, fishing, camping, playing hockey, taking walks, playing at the park, baking, or numerous other activities.
A celebration of life will be held in Gary's honor at Golden Wings Museum, 8797 Airport Road, Blaine, MN 55449 located at the Anoka County Airport on Monday, January 23rd from 4-6 PM in tribute to his love of flight. Casual Attire.
In recognition of the brave battle in which Gary fought against his genetic liver disease (PSC) a memorial has been established in his honor for additional research. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Mayo Clinic, Attn: Department of Development, Gary J. Strong PSC Memorial Research Fund, 200 First St. Southwest, Rochester, MN 55905.
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.