Gary Raffelson

Gary Raffelson, age 74, of Montevideo, Minnesota, passed away Friday, July 11, 2025, at his home. A private celebration of life will be held on his farm at a later date.

Gary Allen Raffelson was born on May 18, 1951, in Montevideo, Minnesota, the son of Ingvald and Elvera (Skogrand) Raffelson. He graduated from Milan High School in 1969 and continued his education at Willmar Community College.

After graduation, Gary began working as a carpenter, served in the National Guard, and helped his dad on the family farm. When his father died in 1976, he took over the farm and continued taking on carpentry as time allowed. He also worked part-time as a CNA at Luther Haven, sharing his compassion by caring for the elderly.

Gary met Carol, the love of his life, at Montevideo Fiesta Days. They were married on July 4, 1987 on the family farm. Together they created a life centered in the farmhouse, surrounded with the rich heritage of family.

One of Gary‘s gifts was woodworking. His creative mind would see something, and then his hands would build it—most often as gifts for family and friends. Some of his creations include bookcases, baby cradles, a butcher block island, wooden spoons, rolling pins, and even a rolltop desk. He found a passion for art with wine corks, creating beautiful trivets, wall hangings, coasters, and lazy susans. Each year Gary would design a different Christmas ornament to give to family and friends from “Santa” out of his own wood shop.

Gary enjoyed playing softball and taking his annual spearfishing trip with his friends up north. Gary built upon his mother’s bread recipe, making it his own. He would make frequent large batches of bread, sharing loaves with family and friends. He had immense patience, and taught many of his nieces and nephews the art of bread baking, which they will carry on.

Gary will be remembered for his positive attitude, his smile, his quiet strength, and his signature denim overalls and leather or straw hat.

Gary is survived by his wife, Carol Dombek; sisters, Marilyn (Bill) Brune, Glory Tillman, Lorene “Winnie” Raffelson; brothers and sisters-in-law, Duane (Barbara) Dombek, Darlys (Greg) Tanghe, Randy (Gunvar) Dombek, Lloyd (Lisa) Dombek, LeAnn Johnikin, Jackie (Dan) Bernaciak, Jody (Tim) Dombek, Cindy (Paul) Ardison; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents, Ingvald and Elvera Raffelson; sister, Alice Scott; father and mother-in-law, Frank and Laurel Dombek; and brothers-in-law, Chuck Tillman and Clayton Dombek.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Gary’s memory to CentraCare Hospice.