Gary Richard Van Vleet

Gary Richard VanVleet, age 82 of Beach, North Dakota passed away on July 9, 2025 at his home surrounded by family. A mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, July 14, 2025 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Beach, North Dakota. Silha Funeral Home of Beach has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Gary was born on October 30, 1942 in Burns, Oregon to Harvey and Una (Murphy) VanVleet. At an early age, the family moved to Killdeer, North Dakota. He attended Killdeer Public School through eighth grade and graduated high school in 1960 from St. Mary's Catholic School in New England, North Dakota. After graduation, he went on to trade school at North Dakota State School of Science receiving an auto mechanic degree. He also attended a year at Dickinson State University.
Gary was united in marriage to Leone Richard in 1964. Their first residence was in Geraldine, Montana. Several years later they moved to Beach. Eight children were born to that relationship. He met Mary Dunbar in 1990 and that meeting led to a 35-year relationship. They were married in 1996. They lived in several places before coming back to Beach in 2001.
Gary made a living for his family by 'turning wrenches' for several different employers in Beach, including Scott Cameron, Dakota Farm and West Plains; Sundance Equipment in Sundance, Wyoming; and a farm equipment dealership in Kittitas, Washington; to name a few. After coming back to Beach, Gary along with his family has operated the fireworks business successfully.
Gary was especially proud of being a volunteer fireman. He spent several years as chief of the Beach Fire Department. He, along with Gary Braden, fought the large forest fire in the Yellowstone Park in 1988. In 1989, he attended the National Fire Academy receiving a Certificate of Achievement in the Master Planning course of study. He was also proud to share the fact that his high school football coach was Ron Erhardt who went on to become the head coach of the NFL New England Patriots.
Gary enjoyed hunting and fishing with his father and sons. He also enjoyed a good game of Pinochle or Booray with his card playing buddies and family. After he retired, one of his favorite things to do was attend an auction sale.
Gary is preceded in death by his parents; brother Robert; son Shawn; granddaughter Lauren; and grandson Robbie.
Gary is survived by his wife, Mary; daughters Sara (Gerard) Goroski, Jeanne Ray, Tonia (Greg)Glass and Teresa VanVleet; sons Curt (Sharon), Dwayne (Wanda) and Dean (Jackee); three stepsons, Allan (Tara) Dunbar, Tony (Molly) Dunbar, and Jason (Tracy) Dunbar; 18 grandchildren and six great grandchildren; five step grandchildren and four step great grandchildren.
Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at: www.silhafuneralhomes.com.