Gary T. Rich

Gary T. Rich, 82, of Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, passed away at his home on Wednesday, March 26, 2025.  Gary was born on April 30, 1942, in Algona, Iowa, the son of Walter Rich Sr. and his wife, Fay.  He was raised on a farm north of Algona, Iowa, and was one of 7 children. Gary was short of material wealth but long on talent in many areas. Gary was a handsome and popular member of the Algona High School Class of 1961. He was a good artist, an exceptional athlete in any sport he tried - primarily wrestling and football. A guitarist with a fine voice, he played in several local bands. A creative craftsman, he made his own guitar and later worked as a carpenter.  Gary enlisted in the Air Force after college and served in intelligence work in Alaska.

He was kind and caring for the disadvantaged. He attended the Methodist Church and was married for several years. He was a proud father of his son Jesse.”He loved carpentry and craftsmanship, loved playing his guitars, loved flying (he held a private license in the past, though he did not fly for the Air Force), he was an excellent artist, and also fishing was a huge love of his and in the past bow hunting.

He’s survived by his sister Rita Polson, son Jesse Rich, Jesse’s son Jacob, his daughter Marilyn Vidrine and her daughters Sydney and Addie, and his ex-wife Nancy Rich (66).

He was preceded in death by his sisters, Georgia, Loraine, and Sandra, and his brothers, Walter (Bud) and Bill.

A Celebration of Life for Gary will be held on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at Holy Trinity United Methodist Church in Centuria.  Visitation will be held an hour prior to the service at the church, followed by military honors and a luncheon.

The Kolstad Family Funeral Home of Centuria has been entrusted with the arrangements.