Gary was born on September 19, 1952, in Long Prairie Minnesota, to Leo and Devona Schahn. From his early years of working on the farm to his later years owning his masonry and trucking companies, he knew how to work hard. More importantly, he knew how to play hard.

On October 2, 1976, Gary and Barbara were married at Ocheyedan Methodist Church in Ocheyedan Iowa. This year marked 50 years of marriage. Together, they built a life with their children creating memories in a house and cabin they built with their own hands.

Gary worked as a mason in the Twin Cities area for 38 years. Through long days and changing seasons, he took pride in his craft. His work stands as a lasting reminder of his dedication, skill, and perseverance. He retired in 2012 and started enjoying more time at the cabin with family and friends.

He enjoyed fishing both in the summer and winter months, snowmobiling, four-wheeling, deer hunting, and gathering around the campfire. In recent year he enjoy spending time with family; whether it was relaxing at the cabin, four-wheeling in South Dakota or fishing in Canada. He was able to take his dream vacation with family cruising around the Hawaiian islands.

Preceding Gary in death were his parents, Leo and Devona Schahn; sister, Bonnie Schahn; brother and sister-in-law, Roger and Shirley Schahn and father-in-law, John Bates.

Gary is survived by his wife, Barbara; his children: Chead (Kathleen) Wessel, Leah (Charles) Kremer, Mitchell (Nicole) Schahn, and Britney (Joshua) Bursch; and his grandchildren: Connor, Cole, Joseph, Melanie, Isabelle, Patrick, Alison, Logan, Brandon, and Ahna.

He will be remembered for his steady presence, his love of the outdoors, his dedication to his family, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. Though he will be deeply missed, the memories he created and love he shared will forever be cherished by those who knew him.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 11AM-2PM on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at the Delano Senior Center in Delano, Minnesota.