Gary Paul Strenge

Gary Paul Strenge, age 80, of New Richland, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 6, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born on February 7, 1945, in Albert Lea, Minnesota, Gary was the son of Gehard Helmer Strenge and Amanda Odella Strenge. He grew up with a deep appreciation for community, hard work, and family—values that shaped every chapter of his life. A visitation will be held at the Trinity Lutheran Church in New Richland on Sunday, December 14, 2025 from 2-5PM. A private funeral and burial will be held at a later date.

Gary graduated from New Richland High School in 1963 and began his college years at the University of Minnesota, later completing his Accounting degree at Mankato State. During his time at the University of Minnesota, he worked at Northrup Auditorium and loved sharing stories of the well-known performers he met there. He proudly played the tuba in the University marching band, marching in the Inauguration parade for President John F. Kennedy, and was honored to sit second chair to Stan Freese, who later became well known for his work with Walt Disney—a memory Gary carried with great fondness.

Gary built a long and respected 50-year career as an accountant, known for his precision, integrity, and steady dependability. He owned and operated his accounting business until retiring in 2020.

Earlier in life, he worked alongside his father at the New Richland Step Plant and later held various roles at Brown Printing in Waseca, where he worked closely with Wayne “Bumps” Brown and often stepped in wherever he was needed—a reflection of his willingness to help and his strong work ethic. He also owned and operated the New Richland Ready Mix.

Community service was woven throughout Gary’s life. He served in various leadership roles, including Township Clerk for 30 years and Bank Director for the State Bank of New Richland, where he remained active until his passing. He volunteered with the Red Cross of Waseca, supported the Historical Society, contributed to the Commercial Club, and assisted the American Legion with its events. With deep family roots in the area—descended from early settlers of New Richland—he cherished the Norwegian heritage passed down through generations.

On August 19, 1967, Gary married Pamela Jean (Possin) Strenge at St. Peter’s Church in New Richland. He shared a lifelong devotion to his wife, even keeping her high school graduation picture tucked in his billfold. Together, they built a strong and loving family rooted in faith, kindness, and enduring commitment. Gary and Pam shared a love for music, and he never passed up the chance for a good polka or waltz.

Gary is survived by their four children: Eric (Brenda) Strenge of New Richland; Annette Strenge of New Richland; Kathleen (Thomas) Bartz of Waseca; and Emily (Michael) Voelker of Bloomington.

He was blessed with numerous grandchildren—Laura (Kyle) Wenzel, Megan (Tim) Ulmen, Katie (Lane) Worden, Ethan Strenge; Kyle, Courtney, and Cory Bartz; and Ava and Owen Voelker—and great-grandchildren: Jace, Harper, Brooks, Bryson, Ella, Landry, and Dutton, each of whom brought him tremendous joy.

Gary is also survived by his sister, Faith Youngberg of Cedar Rapids; brother-in-law John Nelson; several nieces and nephews; extended family; and many dear friends who held a special place in his life. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Frances Nelson; and brother-in-law Alvin Youngberg.

Gary lived a life full of curiosity, ingenuity, and adventure. As a youngster, he traveled the United States with his parents—and later took his own children on many family road trips. Ahead of his time, he built an electric bike as a teenager and rode it so fast the police escorted him home, a story still shared with laughter.

He found joy in trapshooting, golfing, bowling league, fishing, camping, and making his famous pickles. He cherished time spent with friends at The Red Leaf Café and Karl’s, where stories and laughter flowed easily.

Gary will be remembered for the twinkle in his eye, his big, hearty laugh that could fill a room, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. He was often seen walking down Main Street in New Richland, greeting neighbors and enjoying the place he loved most. He lived a life marked by integrity, warmth, and a steadfast dedication to his family and community.

His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the family he cherished so deeply.

In place of flowers, the family encourages memorials to the Owatonna Gun Club, the New Richland Area Historical Society, or the New Richland Area Food Shelf.