Gary Clifford Wahlstrom

Gary Clifford Wahlstrom

Age 74, of Arden Hills, Minnesota, passed away unexpectedly on December 31, 2025, at the University of Minnesota Medical Center. He was born on December 29, 1951, in Minneapolis to Clarence (Harlan) and Ruth Wahlstrom. Gary was known for his warm smile, gentle spirit, and kindness to everyone he met.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Bruce Wahlstrom. Gary is survived by his devoted wife of 22 years, Janice Wahlstrom; sister Lory (Robert) Hrkal and sister-in-law Sandi Napier; niece Amanda (Mike) Bostic; nephews Jeremy Wahlstrom and Chris Hrkal; great-nieces Emily Vaughn and Kaylen Hannigan, great-great- nieces Ruby and Rory, and his beloved dogs, Charlie and Guias.

Gary spent many years working in sales in the transportation and printing industries. After retiring, he dedicated countless hours to volunteer work at Christ Church Lutheran in South Minneapolis. He was often there early on Sunday mornings, making sure the walkways were swept or snow shoveled before others arrived.

Gary was always the first to step forward to help family, friends, neighbors, and even strangers in need. His generosity extended beyond his lifetime through the gift of organ donation; at his death, his liver gave life to a woman in need. 

He especially cherished time spent with family at Lake Mille Lacs and loved the outdoors. His many passions included sailboat racing, fishing, canoeing in the Boundary Waters, golfing with friends, and participating in the sport of ice racing.

Following in the footsteps of his parents, who were active in Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, Gary proudly earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He also worked alongside a pastor to help establish a coffee shop in Dinkytown, creating a welcoming gathering place for University of Minnesota students.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be set for a later date at Christ Church Lutheran, 3244 34th Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55406. A gathering of family and friends will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Janice Wahlstrom to be used toward Gary’s grave marker, or to Christ Church Lutheran.