Gary Herbert Heyer, age 73, of Spring Valley, passed away on Sunday, September 11, 2016 at the Ostrander Nursing Home from complications of heart surgery.
He was born April 8, 1943 to Herbert and Nina (Haupt) Heyer in LaCrosse, Wis. He grew up in New Hartford, Minn. and graduated from Winona High School in 1960. He graduated from Winona State in 1965 with a degree in Elementary Education. From 1965–1969 he taught 5th grade in Wanamingo, Minn. From 1969–1999, he taught 4th, 5th and 6th grade at Hoover and Elton Hills in Rochester, Minn., until his retirement .
On June 17, 1967, Gary was united in marriage to Karen Mensink of Lime Springs, Iowa. He enjoyed watching the Twins and Vikings and enjoyed music. Gary played the piano, guitar and accordion. He loved all his grandchildren and attending all their various activities.
He is survived by his wife, Karen of Spring Valley; children; Renee (Jeff) Skifter of Grand Meadow, Minn.; Shelly (Chris) Malone of Rushford, Minn.; Kevin (Heather) Heyer of Rochester, Minn.; and Amy Heyer of Rochester, Minn.; 10 grandchildren; Brian and Jayson Chavez, Brittney and Jennifer Skifter, Emmalee, Julianna, Abbylyn and Ellyson Malone; and Peyton and Carter Heyer; and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother, Raymond Heyer of St Paul, Minn.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers-in–law, his mother-in-law, and a niece.
Visitation will be held 4-8 p.m. Friday September 16, 2016 at the Hindt Funeral Home in Spring Valley, Minn. A private family burial will take place at the Hiler Cemetery in Nodine, Minn.
Condolences may be left at www.Hindtfuneralhomes.com.