Gary Wilkie

Gary Wilkie, 71, of Fargo, ND, beloved Husband, Son, Father, Grandfather, Brother, Uncle and Friend, passed away after suffering a brain aneurysm at the lake on August 30, 2025.

Gary entered this world on August 5, 1954 in Hallock, MN, born to William and Bessie Wilkie. He graduated from Humboldt High School in 1973, and soon began a proud career at Motor Coach Industries (MCI) in Pembina, ND spanning 43 years. He was known as a firm but fair boss, earning the respect of everyone he worked with.

In 1975, Gary married the love of his life, Kathy Easter, in Pembina, ND. They made a happy home here while raising their sons, Scott and Eric. Summers were spent fishing and camping with family & friends at Cyrus Resort on beautiful Lake of the Woods. In their early 40s, Gary and Kathy took up golf together, enjoying countless rounds and even winning a tournament or two. Yet, more than the scorecard, it was the clubhouse banter, dice games, and fellowship with friends that he cherished most. Gary and Kathy were true partners in every sense, a dynamic duo whose devotion was evident to all who knew them. In retirement, they traveled, attended concerts, and treasured time with family and friends - an early retirement well earned and well lived. They also bought a camper at Big Pine lake near Perham, MN where they made new friendships and created many a cherished memory with Eric, Bekah, and the grandkids.

One of the many ways Gary showed love was through food and presence. Spoon malts, caramels, and homemade hot dog pizzas were just a few of his specialties. He made a mean breakfast as well. He also passed down a love of sports to his children and grandchildren and attended their games whenever possible.

Gary was a wonderful husband and father, and that love carried seamlessly into his role as a devoted grandfather. He loved to have fun and was known to be a character who loved to laugh and make others laugh. He had a huge heart in the way he cared for others, and that is remembered by all who knew him.

Gary is survived by his wife of 50 years, Kathy Wilkie; sons, Scott (Christy) Wilkie, Fargo, ND; Eric (Rebekah) Wilkie, Dilworth, MN; four grandchildren, Madelyn, Max, Emma, and Elijah; brothers, Jim (Pauline) Wilkie, Colorado Springs, CO; John (Sue) Wilkie, Bloomington, MN; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Bessie Wilkie, and his brother, Bill Wilkie.

Celebration of Life: 10am, Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home, Fargo, ND with a visitation one hour prior. The service will be livestreamed on the funeral home website.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to a newly created fund at the FM Area Foundation called the "Gary Wilkie Memorial Fund". Dollars in the fund will be granted to local charities in honor of our beloved Gary.

"If there's a song in your heart, let your face show it"

The joy, love, and goodness we carry was never meant to be hidden away. The gift to ourselves and others is to uncover that light within and let it shine. Gary didn't let anything dim his light or mute his song. He cared too deeply for those around him to ever allow that to happen. Through a smile, through kindness, through laughter, and oft times a shared drink, and always with care - Gary made sure others felt the warmth that he carried. And in this manner, he helped lift others. In this manner, love was made visible and multiplied. And thus the music within one life became a blessing to many and a legacy for all. Thanks for sharing your song, Gary. We feel a little out of tune right now, but for you we'll keep trying to sing our own songs. We're just really going to miss yours.

Arrangements entrusted to Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home - Fargo, ND