Gary James Justus

Gary Justus passed away in his home on February 24, 2025. He was born in Harvey, ND on April 2, 1944, to Edward and Helen.  Gary attended a one-room schoolhouse in St. Anna Township where he was the brightest (and only) student in his grade. He was the president of the Future Farmers of America organization his senior year at Fessenden High School, graduating in 1962. Gary got a kick out of bragging to his kids that he lettered in track in high school (throwing the shotput, not running, as he was built for comfort and not for speed). Gary attended North Dakota State University, earning his degree in Agricultural Engineering while also earning the title of state of North Dakota junior rifle champion.

Shortly after graduation, Gary married Karen Holm from Moorhead, MN on July 17, 1966. Gary’s early years on his family’s farm created a foundational love for agriculture, motors and nature that wove through his entire life. Gary started his thirty-five-year career with John Deere in 1966 in Great Falls, MT. He later moved with his family to Minneapolis, Plow Planter Works in Moline, IL, branches in Syracuse NY, Columbus OH and finally Raleigh NC from where he ultimately retired in 2001 as a Manager of Product Support in the Lawn & Grounds Division. After retiring, Gary and Karen enjoyed traveling to visit family and friends and they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on an Alaskan cruise.

Over the years, Gary enjoyed hunting, snowmobiling, driving his 1973 yellow Corvette Stingray, golfing and in later years, surf fishing in the Outer Banks of NC. He was an avid Syracuse Orange basketball fan. He was most content on the seat of his John Deere riding lawnmower. Gary loved to laugh and give a gentle ribbing to the people he loved. He was a big man with a heart of gold. He was a blessing and comfort to all that knew him.

Gary is survived by Karen, his wife of 58 years and his sister Marian Rhone of Fargo, ND. His love and legacy lives on through his daughter Andrea (Matthew) Arens, son Matt (Carolyn) Justus, his grandchildren Jessica (Xavier) Shelton, Justin (Izzy) Arens, Lauren Justus and Derek Justus, his great-grandsons Julian, Shiloh, Taron and Callum Shelton and his first great-granddaughter, who is due in July.

In lieu of flowers, Gary’s family requests that donations be made to charities of your choosing, keeping his selfless warm spirit alive.

Graveside services will be held at 12:30 PM, Thursday, July 17, 2025 at the Hillside Cemetery in Fessenden, ND with Pastor Shirley Teske officiating.  A reception will follow at the Viking Coffee Shop in Fessenden, all are welcome.