Gary Beckstrand

  Gary Eugene Beckstrand, age 70, passed away at his daughters home in Grand Forks, N.D surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, July 10th 2016.   Gary was born on March 13th, 1946 in Litchfield, MN to parents Melvin and Millie Beckstrand. Gary was baptized and confirmed at Beckville Lutheran church in Litchfield.   Gary was a chief boiler engineer working at First District in Litchfield , later for the State of Minnesota in Moose Lake and St. Paul.   He was a truck driver, heavy equipment operator as well during his life.   Gary enjoyed time with family and friends. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, traveling which he and wife Anita did a lot of. Winters were spent in Casa Grande Az. where riding his quad in the mountains and desert brought much enjoyment. He was known to visit a casino or two.   Gary was a Vietnam Veteran serving in the navy.   He is survived by his loving wife Anita, daughters Holly (Shaul) Chatman, Heidi (Lonnie) Lloyd, Grandchildren, Nehemiah Beckstrand, Shekinah Beckstrand, Jordyn Lloyd and Sydney Lloyd. Brothers, David (Sue) Beckstrand, Mark (Donna) Beckstrand, Chuck Beckstrand. Sister in laws, Charlene (Gil) Gilchrist and Gretchen (Stephen) Sperry.   He was blessed with many more remarkable nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.   Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Millie Beckstrand, Grandparents, William and Helen Piepenburg, Andrew and Dinah Beckstrand. Infant sister Barbie Beckstrand. A celebration of life will be held on Monday afternoon, July 18th, from 3-6pm at the Litchfield Civic Arena Community Room, 900 North Gilman Ave., Litchfield,MN. Program begins at 4:00pm