Gary Joseph Patnode, age 62 of Corcoran, Minnesota, passed away October 29, 2020.

He was born on November 22, 1957 in Buffalo, Minnesota to James and Beverly (Pettit) Patnode. He was the oldest of seven children. Gary was raised on the family farm in Corcoran, and at a young age, he developed a strong work ethic. He could drive tractors when he was as young as 10 years old, and was always willing to help with the farming chores.

He attended high school in Rockford and graduated with the class of 1976. After high school, Gary furthered his education by attending Anoka Tech for mechanics. He worked in Osseo for a stucco company and then around 1995, he started his own business providing drywall and taping services to people in the area.

Gary was known for being meticulous when it came to refinishing and restoring items he’d find or had already. He enjoyed working on vehicles and tractors, and could bring old things to life. Gary had a keen ability to fix anything and make it work like new. He was a member of the Oliver Club, and restored many tractors in his lifetime.

His ultimate pride and joy were his children and grandchildren. Gary showed his love for his children by providing simple life lessons like changing a tire, driving a stick shift, and always check the oil. He was always teaching them practical knowledge that will be useful for so many years to come. Gary had a kind soul, was loyal, and would do anything to help another person. He would always be willing to help his family and friends with miscellaneous jobs and chores, and never expected anything in return. He never turned down a job either! He had a quiet and gentle personality, but a big and generous heart which he will be remembered for most of all.

Gary is preceded in death by his father, James Patnode; grandparents, Elmer and Margaret Patnode and Millie and Martin Pettit; and nephew, Adam Patnode.

He is survived by his children, Kara (Joseph) Nordlie, Danielle Patnode, and Brandt Patnode; grandchildren, Jaxson, Hensley, and Millie Nordlie; mother, Beverly Patnode; siblings, Dan (Cindy) Patnode, Daryl (Lori) Patnode, Mona (Peter) Kurtz, Loren (Vickie) Patnode, Donna Jacobs, and Brian (Christina) Patnode; many nieces and nephews; and other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held Thursday, November 5, 2020 from 4:00 -8:00 PM at The Peterson Chapel in St. Michael-Albertville. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, November 6, 2020 at 11:00 AM with visitation one hour prior at St. Michael Catholic Church in St. Michael, MN. Interment will be held at a later date at St. Jeanne de Chantel Cemetery in Corcoran, MN.

In lieu of flowers, memorials or donations to the family are preferred.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of St. Michael-Albertville. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com.

Due to COVID-19 guidelines, we ask that all attendees abide by social distancing regulations and practice safe precautions by wearing a mask if planning to attend the visitation and/or service.