Gary Ellis Packer, age 70 of Rockford, MN, passed away Sept 12, 2026, from complications from Parkinson’s (2024), Epilepsy (1981), HBP (1995), Kidney Failure (2022).
Gary (Buzz) was born Nov. 1, 1955, in Aitkin, MN to Ellis and Mabel (Stingley) Packer. He was the middle child of 3 and lived his younger years in Palisade, MN. He graduated from Aitkin High School in 1973 at the age of 17.
He moved to Minneapolis and worked many jobs. He moved into St. Paul in 1978 where he met his wife Denise of 47 years. They married on May 10, 1980.
He was an avid sports fan, MN Twins, Timberwolves, Wild. He’d watch tennis and golf. Loved spending time with friends and loved children.
Gary was preceded in death by his son, Grant; his parents; two sisters, Sharron & Karen; nephew, Matthew; and many aunts, uncles, and grandparents.
Gary is survived by his wife, Denise; and son Nathan; along with many cousins and aunts.
Memorial service will be held Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 1:00 PM with visitation beginning one hour prior at The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo – 119 Central Avenue, Buffalo, MN. Inurnment will be held at a later date in Toronto, SD.
Arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com
Buzz will truly be missed, what a great time we had growing up in Aitkin. RIP my friend.
I am so sorry to hear about Gary. 😕 I didn’t know him very well, but Gaylen always spoke highly of him. They were good friends. I was grateful to see him in Aitkin this summer. Please take care. My thoughts and prayers have been with you. 💜
I am so sorry Denise and Nathan. I always enjoyed visiting with him and you and the knowledge he had regarding most subjects.. HE definitely loved his MN teams. Especially the twins always sporting g a MN Twins shirt. I will be thinking and praying for you and your family.