Gaylen Gerry

Gaylen Luvern Gerry, passed away on June 3, 2026, just two days shy of his 82nd birthday. Born on June 5, 1944, in Winona Hospital to Rueben and Cora Gerry, Gaylen spent his childhood in the warm community of St. Charles, Minnesota.

A proud graduate of St. Charles High School, he would go on to pursue his education at a watch-making college in the Twin Cities. He then embarked on a remarkable career at IBM. Starting as a repair tech, Gaylen’s hard work and dedication saw him rise through the ranks over 30 years, ultimately working in various leadership and management roles. He was welcomed to the IBM Quarter Century Club as a testament to his commitment and success.

On November 6, 1964, Gaylen married Carol Peterson at North Prairie Lutheran Church, and together they built a loving family with their two sons. Gaylen was a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church in St. Charles and enjoyed spending his weekends on the water, indulging in his passions for boating and fishing. His love for the river was shared by his children and grandchildren, bringing the family together for countless joyful moments. He also had a knack for tinkering with cars, showcasing his hands-on personality. Family meant everything to him and brought him the biggest joy in life.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Carol; his children, Gene (Melissa) Gerry, Chad (Kathy) Gerry; grandchildren, Danielle (Lance) Rud and their children, Eloise and Gavin; Megan (Jake) Zielsdorf and their children, Zane and Zoey; McKennah (Jacob) Eklund and their children, Everett and Croix; Keaton (Leanna) Gerry; sister, Coralyn Worth; sisters-in-law, Sonja Gerry, Wilma Loitz; and brother-in-law, Mike Repinski; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Rueben and Cora; parents-in-law, Ellwood Peterson and Mary Suhr; brother, Frank Gerry; brother-in-law, Rollie Loitz, John Worth; sisters-in-law, Judy Repinski and Bonnie (Jim) Breckner.

Friends and family are invited to gather to celebrate Gaylen’s life on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at Hoff Funeral Home in St. Charles, MN, at 11 a.m., with visitation starting an hour prior to the service. Rev. Douglas Hedman will lead the ceremony. Gaylen will be laid to rest at Saratoga Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider a donation to a charity of your choice in his honor.