Gary A. Rieland

1949 - 2025

Gary Anthony Rieland, 76, passed away peacefully Oct. 30, 2025, at Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park, surrounded by the love of his family.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 25, at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church, 105 N. Forestview Lane, in Plymouth, with visitation one hour prior to Mass. Visitation will also be 5-8 p.m. Monday, Nov. 24, with a rosary prayed by the Knights of Columbus at 7:30 p.m. at Gearty-Delmore Plymouth Chapel, 15800 37th Ave. N., in Plymouth. Private inurnment will be at a later date at Gethsemane Cemetery.
Gary was born Oct. 24, 1949, to Wilfred and Loretta (Welle) Rieland of Melrose, Minnesota, where his strong foundation of faith, family and hard work first took root.
Gary lived a life shaped by faith, service and compassion. He proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam era, honoring his country with courage and dedication. His deep Catholic faith guided every part of his life, and he was a devoted and active member of St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church, the Father George Council Knights of Columbus and the Nicollet Assembly Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus. His brother Knights were not only friends, but family - companions in faith, service and joyful fraternity.
Gary also found meaningful support and lasting friendship through his involvement at The Retreat in Wayzata. His time there became an important part of his life, providing connection, shared understanding and genuine companionship. The relationships Gary formed in that community brought him strength, humor, encouragement and a sense of belonging. He deeply valued the fellow men and women who walked that journey with him, and they held a very special place in his heart.
Gary married the love of his life, Kathleen "Katie" (Duclos), and together they built a home filled with warmth, laughter and unshakable devotion. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather, who treasured time spent with family, whether gathered at the dinner table, sharing stories or spending quiet moments enjoying the beauty of God's creation. He especially cherished the peace of Birch Lake, where many memories were made during fishing openers with family and friends.
Gary's life was a testament to perseverance and grace. Even when confronted with physical challenges, he faced them with courage, determination and faith. His strength inspired everyone who knew him. He never allowed limitations to dampen his spirit or his desire to serve others. His kindness, humor and genuine love for people made him a friend to all. He had the rare gift of making others feel seen, valued and welcomed.
Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Katie; daughters Kristen and her husband, Glen Esposito, and Gretchen and her husband, Brian Hoffer; and his cherished grandchildren, Anthony, Isabella, Tyler and Sophia Esposito, Kaitlyn and Kylie Flynn and Kaylee and Juel Hoffer; sisters-in-law, Shirley (Klassen) Rieland, Mary (Sullivan) Rieland and Lou (Meyer) Rieland; brothers- and sisters-in-law Joe and Shirley (Duclos) Miller, Tom and Darlene (Duclos) Glatzmaier, and Roger "Butch" Wolf; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilfred and Loretta Rieland; brothers John "Jack," Michael and Mark Rieland; father- and mother-in-law William and Regina Duclos; and sister-in-law Joyce (Duclos) Wolf.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred and will be directed by the family to causes close to Gary's heart.

"Our Country is in Mourning, A Veteran Died Today."