June 16, 1945 – September 13, 2019

Gary Lynn “Buck” Elofson, age 74, of Alexandria and formerly of Northfield peacefully passed away in his sleep on Friday, September 13, 2019 at North Memorial Hospital in Robbinsdale.
He was born on June 16, 1945 in Perham, Minnesota the son of Wendell & Frances (Berry) Elofson. He grew up the middle child on their family farm where he rooted himself in his Christian faith, developed a strong work ethic, and grew his love for the outdoors.
After graduating from Perham High school, Gary honorably served his country in The United States Army. He was stationed in Frankfurt, Germany where he met his love and future bride.
On June 16, 1967, Gary Elofson and Marianne Haeckl were joined in holy marriage in Perham, Minnesota. God blessed their marriage with two children.
Gary worked at the General Mills Research Facility in Golden Valley for 6 years, opened the Barrel O’ Fun potato chip plant in Perham, and spent 33 years of his career with The Malt-O-Meal Company in Northfield as a Process Engineer.
He was an engaged and active member of the community serving as president of the Northfield Jaycees, and the Northfield Hockey Association. He was a lifetime member of V.F.W. Post #4393 in Northfield and attended Northfield Cornerstone Church.
In retirement, Gary and Marianne moved from Northfield to Lake Andrew near Alexandria. He enjoyed watching the sunsets, mowing the lawn, fishing, and spending time with family and friends. During this time they attended Alexandria Covenant Church.
Gary was a man of faith and ideals. Honesty, integrity, loyalty, and hard work defined him in many ways. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, and reading (particularly his Bible). Some of his favorite traditions included oyster stew at Christmas, or his annual weeklong fishing trip with his General Mills buddies (a tradition that occurred for more than 48 years). He was also an avid collector of coins and a wonderful storyteller.
Survived by his loving wife of fifty-two years: Marianne Elofson; children: Kim (Craig) Brandli of St. Michael and Jeff Elofson (Mia Lee) of Minneapolis; grandchildren: Luke, Kate and Kylee Brandli and Ben & Van Elofson; a brother: Rod (Sonja) Elofson of Perham and by a sister: Gayle (Tom) Ferch of Maplewood; other relatives and friends.
Preceded in death by his parents.
A Celebration of Life for Gary Lynn Elofson will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2019 at 11:00 A.M. at
Northridge Fellowship, 12522 Main Street, in Rogers, MN 55374. Lunch will follow.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 12th beginning at 10:00 A.M. at Northridge Fellowship in Rogers.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Diabetes Association or Northridge Fellowship Building Fund.
The Peterson Chapel St. Michael-Albertville Funeral Home is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com