December 16, 1954 – February 14, 2018

Age 63 of Pequot Lakes, MN and West Saint Paul, MN

Gary passed away suddenly after suffering a massive heart attack. Preceded in death by his parents, James and Irene (Heidenreich) Ustruck, and brother Greg. Survived by brother Tom; and sisters, Sandy (James) Olsen, and Judy (Kevin) Simeon; sister-in-law, Kim Ustruck; nephews, Derek and Luke Simeon; nieces, Jackie (Ed) Kellner, Danielle Ustruck, Samantha and Sara Simeon; great nephews, Aiden and Logan; and great niece Olivia.

Gary lived all but the last few years of his life in West St. Paul. He was generous, compassionate, and loved dearly by family, friends, and co-workers. Gary was an avid supporter of UofM Gopher Hockey, serving both the men's and women's hockey programs in various roles for more than 40 years. Gary also served as an off-ice official for the Minnesota State High School hockey tournaments; and before his heart health forced him to hang up his whistle, he was a long-time Minnesota high school football official.

When Gary wasn't officiating or working, he loved to spend time on the lake fishing or in the kitchen baking. He particularly enjoyed fishing with his nieces and nephews on Upper Hay Lake in Pequot Lakes, where his wacky and fun antics kept them laughing. At home, Gary was always surrounded by his many golden retrievers. His love for golden retrievers was enormous, and he frequently took in golden retrievers that had been rescued from shelters or were no longer wanted by their owners. We always noted that life was pretty darn good for a golden retriever at the Ustruck home.  Gary's baking talents were much lauded and appreciated by friends, co-workers, and family alike. He enjoyed creating decadent desserts, and his banana bread was "legendary".

Gary left us too soon. Having retired from his pastry chef position at Grandview three weeks ago, Gary was just starting a new chapter in his life. He was looking forward to working hockey games without having to commute between Pequot Lakes and Minneapolis; and he was planning to travel to see friends in Europe, spend time honing his woodworking skills, gardening, baking, and enjoying life on the lake. His family and friends will miss his unique sense of humor and the light-hearted way he approached life.  We will also miss his iconic Hawaiian shirts.

Family and Friend Gathering

Sunday, February 25, 2018, 3:00-4:30pm, with a 4:30pm Celebration of Life service at Johnson-Peterson Funeral Home St. Paul. Hawaiian shirts and Gopher apparel is encouraged!

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Animal Humane Society in his name.