Gary Asleson

Gary Asleson, 66, of Grand Forks, ND passed away peacefully on Friday, June 6, 2008 at Altru Hospital surrounded by his family after a short but courageous battle with lung cancer. Gary was born June 20, 1941 in Hanska, MN the son of Raymond and Florence Asleson. He graduated from New Ulm High School in 1959. He married his high school sweetheart Mary Margaret Volinkaty from Winthrop, MN. He proudly served 6 years in the US Navy, much of that time aboard the USS Essex Aircraft Carrier. He attended the University of Minnesota and graduated with degrees in Political Science and Economics from Mankato State College. Upon graduation Gary went to work as a Bank Examiner with the FDIC in Owatonna, MN. In 1972 he relocated to Grand Forks, ND. He became involved in real estate and the development of Medvue Estates. He started the TAC Fitness Center, which led to his company becoming a nationally recognized Racquetball Court Builder. He later specialized in the installation and the refinishing of hardwood floors. His work can be seen in many private residences, over a hundred area school gymnasiums, including Sacred Heart Catholic School, UND Wellness Center, and the Betty Engelstad Sioux Center. He was past president of the North Dakota Association of Home Builders and Forx Home Builders. He was a Master Mason in the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry and a member of the KEM Shriners Temple. He belonged to many organizations in his lifetime. His loves were taking his dogs, Henri and Sadie, to the new Lincoln Dog Park, golfing and watching his grandchildren in their many sporting events and activities. Grandpa was their #1 fan. He also was a long time avid Sioux fan and supporter. He was so very proud of his children and loved spending time with them and their families. Gary will be remembered by many as a hard worker who took great pride in his work. He will be missed by the people whose lives he has touched. By his example he inspired, helped and encouraged family, friends, and coworkers to be their best. Gary never met a stranger. Gary is survived by his loving wife, Mary; son, Kent (Robin) Lino Lakes, MN; daughters, Marie (Steve) Goodwin, Angus, MN, and Leah (Richard) Barnett, St. Louis Park, MN; grandchildren, Jared, Cole & Lucas Goodwin, Joey & Louise Asleson, Ryan, Owen & Evelyn Barnett; brother, Robert (Pat) Asleson, Bethesda, MD; sister, Janis Pasiuk, Corydon, IN; brother-in-law, Darryl Tostenson, Burnsville, MN; and many nieces and nephews. Gary was preceded in death by parents; brother, Harlan; sister, Donna Tostenson; brother-in-law, Edward Pasiuk; and nephew Brent Tostenson. Memorial Services followed by a Masonic Service: will be 4:00 p.m. Sunday, June 8, 2008 at Amundson Funeral Home, 2975 S. 42nd St., Grand Forks. Visitation will be from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. Interment: will be in Ft. Snelling Veterans Cemetery, St. Paul, Minnesota.