Gary Leonard Triplett, age 77 of Buffalo, Minnesota, passed away unexpectedly on August 17, 2021. He was born on December 29, 1943 in Watertown, Minnesota to Edward and Alma (Pickruhn) Triplett.

In 1967, he was drafted to serve in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He proudly served until his honorable discharge in 1969.

On August 19, 1972, he was joined in marriage to LaDonna Ray at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in Minneapolis. Together they raised five children.

Gary was known for his hard work ethic. He truly enjoyed working alongside his coworkers at Tennant Company in Osseo, where he was employed for 32 years. He happily retired in 2007.

In his spare time and in his retirement years, Gary liked to be outdoors. He mostly hunted grouse and deer, and spent numerous hours up north on the lakes in the Grand Rapids area catching fish. Camping with family and friends was another outdoor pastime he loved. Gary also liked to tend to his fruit and vegetable gardens, often joking he’d only plant something that he could eat!

The best was yet to come when he became a grandpa and great-grandpa. He was known for giving the best hugs and was a dedicated family man.  They would often request that he make his famous pancakes as a special treat, and he made sure that plenty was made for them to enjoy. He was dedicated to taking care of his family’s needs, being loyal, and encouraging them to reach their goals. He was proud of all of their achievements.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Alma; brothers, Edward Jr and Wayne Triplett; and sister, Charlene Stark.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, LaDonna; children, Michael Triplett, Shelley (Tom) Olson, Lisa (Shawn) Oberg, Christopher Triplett (Tami Sutherland), and Danielle Triplett (Mark Schroeder); grandchildren, Brett Oberg, Brad Oberg, Kayden Triplett, Cullen Triplett, Christopher (Tammy) Mueske, Ethan (Pam) Fish, Makayla (Les) Hamilton,  and Katrina Smith; great-grandchildren, Aerowyn, Elijah, Nick, Natalie, Carson, Amelia, Avalyn and Harlan; siblings, Dean (Angie) Triplett, Janice Skelly, Nancy Zabel, and Mary Jo (Daryl) Menth; and many other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held Friday, August 27, 2021 at The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo and begin at 4:00 PM. A Celebration of Life will follow at 6:00 PM with military honors to conclude the service.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com