Gary L. Dietrich

Gary Lynn Dietrich, 78, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and service. Memorial service will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at the United Lutheran Church in Cavalier. Visitation will be held from noon on Thursday until the time of services.

Born on September 24, 1947, to Louis and Irene (Flint), Gary grew up in Crystal, North Dakota, where he graduated high school in 1965. He attended North Dakota State University before answering the call to serve his country in the United States Navy from 1969 to 1971.

Gary's work ethic was evident throughout his diverse and accomplished career. After his military service, he worked as an apprentice electrician and later owned and operated his own bulk fuel business in Crystal. He spent 14 years as a truck driver and paver operator for Mayo Construction, followed by 12 years on the assembly line at Motor Coach Industries. Gary concluded his working years with 7 years as a Customs and Border Protection Officer before retiring in 2010.

A man who appreciated life's simple pleasures, Gary enjoyed fishing, golfing, hunting, and watching wildlife. He had a special fondness for music from the 1960s, which often filled his home.

He was a proud member of the Cavalier American Legion for 51 years. Those who knew Gary well will remember that he never minced words and always told it like it was, whether you wanted to hear it or not.

Gary married Carol Stamm in 1969, a union that lasted until 1979. On June 26, 1993, he found lasting happiness when he married Peggy (Thomson) Hannesson, and together they made their home in Akra, North Dakota.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Peggy; daughter Penny (Mark) of Fargo, ND; stepchildren Monica (Bill) Bohn of Cavalier, ND, Marci (Adam) Eckroth of Fargo, ND, and Mark (Holly) Hannesson of Parshall, ND; grandchildren Tatianna and Hailey Smith, Jessica (Tyler) Reimer, Deric Bohn, Kaitlyn (Michelle) Alvarez, Darion (Megan) Hannesson, Ashlynn Hannesson, and Sarah and AJ Eckroth; great-grandchildren Saylor Alvarez and Elleanor Hannesson; sisters-in-law, Carol Dietrich and Debbie Shoefner; and stepsisters, Linda Ranisate, Nancy Gurneau, and Jolyn Boyce; and an abundance of nieces and nephews he adored, and his beloved pets Ginger, Blackie, and Pinkie.

He was preceded in death by his parents Louis (Evie) Dietrich and Irene (Bill) Thorwaldson; brothers Dennis, James, and Tracy; sister Carol Hoekstra; nephew Justin; and his faithful companions, Cinder & Mocha.

He will be remembered by all who knew him.