Gary Leon Garlock

October 11, 1962 – August 2, 2025
Gary Leon Garlock, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on August 2, 2025, in St. Michael, Minnesota. He was born on October 11, 1962, in Waconia, Minnesota, to George Leon and Dorothy Eileen Garlock. Gary's life, spanning nearly 63 years, was characterized by hard work, deep devotion to family, and a love of the great outdoors.
Gary graduated from Eisenhower High School in 1981 and quickly established himself as a dedicated worker. His career as a truck driver spanned over three decades, during which he selflessly devoted long hours to ensure the well-being of his family. He began his journey delivering baked goods, spent nine years with Holiday Companies, and ultimately dedicated 25 years to SuperValu/UNFI. His commitment to hard work was unwavering; often working up to 60 hours a week, Gary exemplified loyalty and diligence.
On July 18, 1987, Gary married his cherished wife, Valerie Garlock, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Plymouth, Minnesota. Together, they celebrated 38 wonderful years of marriage, filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Gary deeply loved his family, and his life stands as a testament to his selfless spirit. He is survived by his devoted wife, Valerie, and their two beloved children, Ashley Elise (Garlock) Hoffman, who is married to Branden Hoffman, and Joshua Gary Garlock, who is engaged to Kaitlin Enochs. He is also survived by his mother, Dorothy Garlock, and his brothers, Steve Garlock and Kevin Garlock, along with their families, including sister-in-law Kelly Garlock. Gary was a proud grandfather to Levi Lundeen and Jesse Hoffman and an adoring uncle to his nieces and nephews, including Jason, Jenna, Jessica Garlock, Sherrie Prose, Jessica Prose, Jameson Prose, and Dakota Benigni, as well as sister-in-laws Carolyn Prose and Kathleen Kerkes. He also cherished his great-nieces and great-nephews, Jordan and Jaxon, and his beloved fur babies, Torie and Emmie Lou Hoo.
In his youth, Gary was a talented athlete, excelling in hockey and baseball. His remarkable ability on the field was highlighted by his impressive feats, such as hitting a single, double, triple, and home run, all while being the star pitcher at the plate-a talent that caught the attention of minor league scouts. However, Gary's true passions lay beyond sports. He had a profound love for hunting and fishing, activities he enjoyed most with his father and later passed on to his son, Joshua. Some of his fondest memories were spent fishing with family and friends at Little Round Lake in McGregor, Lake Allie in Hutchinson, and Lake Michigan in Kewaunee, Wisconsin. Gary found joy and vitality in the great outdoors, often spending weeks at deer camp in Cloquet, Minnesota, where he would ride his four-wheeler, create paths in the woods for his deer stand, and chop wood in preparation for the upcoming hunting season. In his 50s, he embraced biking with Valerie, enjoying long rides on the scenic trails of Minnesota.
Gary's character was defined by his loyalty and unwavering commitment to his family. Despite the challenges of declining physical health, he spent four days a week living at his mother's house for four years, ensuring her well-being. His steadfast dedication to providing for his loved ones was evident in every aspect of his life.
A funeral service to celebrate Gary's life will be held on August 14, 2025, at 4:00 PM at Peterson Funeral Home, 119 Central Avenue, Buffalo, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to his children, Ashley Garlock Hoffman and Joshua Garlock.
The family extends special gratitude to the friends and family members who provided unwavering support during Gary's illness: Steve and Kelly Garlock, Tony and Liz Lambert, Craig and Jean DeZiel, Jeff and Holly Kasel, Dean Carlson, and Cindy and Greg Mortenson. Your kindness will always be remembered, and we believe that heaven surely holds a special reward for your generosity.
Gary Leon Garlock will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, commitment, and selflessness will continue to inspire those he leaves behind. Rest in peace, Gary; your memory will forever live on in our hearts.