Gary Sanden

HOKAH, MN - Gary Allen Sanden, 73, of Hokah, MN died on Sunday, October 21, 2018, at Gundersen Lutheran Health Center in La Crosse, WI.
Gary was born on August 18, 1945, in La Crosse, WI to Allen and Bonnie (Patrick) Sanden. He was raised in Houston, MN and graduated from Houston High School in 1963. He attended Winona State University and the Minneapolis Business College. He served in the U.S. Navy with his brother, Dennis, from 1967 to 1969 during the Vietnam War. On November 16, 1974, he was united in marriage with Janie Skifton in Caledonia, MN. Gary was a member of Cross of Christ Church-Houston.
Gary worked at Houston-Money Creek Coop for several years. He and his brother, Dennis, and his sister, Cheryl worked together for many years in the auction, real estate and appraisal business, and most recently, Gary's son, Brett joined the family business. Gary was very proud of his family owned business. Gary and Dennis also enjoyed farming together, and took great pride in their family farm. Gary definitely lived to work and was still working on his last day here on earth, but his most important "work" was his family, his pride and joy.
Gary is survived by his wife, Janie; two children: Shanon (Dan) Bills of Hokah and Brett Sanden of Houston; three grandchildren: Mason, Molly and Mikey; four siblings: Jeanne (Peter) Johnson, Dennis (Ione) Sanden, Cheryl Sanden, and Steve (Beth) Sanden all of Houston; and by two very special friends: Kevin Haas and Johnnie B. He adored his family, and he made everyone feel safe, special and loved. "Bapa" couldn't have given any more love to his family, and his presence will be deeply missed. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister, Debra.
There will be a funeral service for Gary at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, October 26, 2018 at Cross of Christ Lutheran Church in Houston. Burial will be in the Stone Church Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday at Cross of Christ Lutheran Church and one hour prior to the service also at the church.
The family prefers memorials to the donor's choice. Hoff Funeral and Cremation Service - Houston is assisting the family with arrangements.