Gary Joseph Hite

Obituary of Gary Joseph Hite
Gary Joseph Hite, of Eagan, MN, 79, passed away peacefully at home, in the care of his loving wife on Friday, January 31, 2025.
Gary was born on June 11, 1945, in Toledo, Ohio, the son of the late Joseph Hite and Audrey (Tiplady) Hite. In 1962, his family moved to Cottage Grove, MN, and he graduated from Park High School in 1963, where he played football and ran track. Gary retired from 3M after 36 years. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus.
Gary enjoyed spending time in his garage "man cave," tinkering with cars, listening to talk radio, and chatting with his neighbors. He was always willing to help out, give advice, lend his tools (and expertise!), and his favorite, tell his stories (accuracy optional!). Up to the end, Gary always had a joke to tell.
He spent many years helping set-up and take down his church's fall festival, as well as working pancake breakfasts with his fellow Knights. A devoted Minnesota Twins fan, Gary loved attending games or watching them on TV. Bowling was his favorite winter pastime.
Gary loved being outside, going up to a cabin, sitting around the campfire, and fishing - in recent years he was thrilled to be able to find a fishing buddy in his grandson, Mason. And he loved seeing his granddaughter, Olivia dance, whether at a competition or recital.
Survived by his wife of 50 years, Mary (Santa) Hite; son, Matthew Hite; daughter, Andrea Hite (Travis Baxter); grandchildren, Olivia Van Vickle and Mason Hite; his sisters, Bonnie Weiss, Pat Christensen (Curt), and Denise Morgan (Tom); as well as many friends and extended family.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Mary Jane (MJ) White, our neighbor and friend, whose nursing background and willingness to help, went above and beyond. Thank you for helping make sure that Gary was always comfortable. We also want to express our heartfelt gratitude to Gary's incredible nurse, Liz (and the whole team!) from Hospice of the Midwest. Your kind and caring approach made our entire family feel comfortable and confident that he was in the best hands - yours! We're forever grateful for the support and comfort you offered our family.
To everyone who has sent cards, messages, shared a funny story or memory, dropped off food, held our family in your hearts and prayers, thank you. Please know that they have been received and are deeply appreciated.
Please join us for a Celebration of Gary's Life:
March 1, 2025
10AM Visitation
11AM Mass of Resurrection
Luncheon to follow
St. Thomas Becket Catholic Church
4455 South Robert Trail
Eagan, Minnesota 55123
In lieu of flowers please direct memorials to the family who will disburse gifts to the multiple organizations that Mary and Gary supported.