Gary D. Wilts rode into this world on May 8, 1942, and rode away on April 1, 2020. Gary had many mishaps throughout his life, although it was on this tragic day that he had his final mishap, riding away on his last ride, a ride that we all must take before we meet again.
A private family funeral will be held on Saturday, April 4th at the United Methodist Church in White with burial to follow at Fairview Cemetery. A celebration of life, memorial pot luck, and ride at Gilley’s Grove in honor of Gary will be held at a future date, when public gatherings are once again permitted. Eidsness Funeral Home is assisting Gary’s family with arrangements.
Gary was born to his parents Harm and Bernice (Sletten) Wilts, and grew up in the Chancellor-Lennox area, having many adventures with his brother Gayle and many cousins and friends.
Gary spent most of his early years pursuing his love of animals, especially horses. He loved to hunt and fish, and these continued to be the passions of his life.
Gary moved to the Brookings area when he was 20 years old and began working for Dakota Concrete, remaining with the business for 50 years which had many different names over time. He often joked about how many times he was bought and sold.
Gary moved to White, South Dakota in 1972, where he raised his family and made many long-lasting friends throughout the community.
Gary was a devout Christian and loved his Church family at United Methodist Church in White. He was a wonderful husband and life partner to Laurie, and an outstanding grandfather who spent a lot of his time helping to teach his grandchildren about the things he loved.
He loved to rope and looked forward to weekly rides with his closest friends and family at Gilley’s grove. He touched many of our lives and shared his thoughts, stories, and knowledge with anyone who cared to listen.
His kindness, quietness, love, and respect towards all that were important to him was immeasurable. He liked what he liked, and told you what he didn’t like – he was comfortable in his own skin.
Gary will be missed by his wife, family, and all who crossed his path.
Gary is survived by his wife Laurie; his children: Evonne (Michael) Weber, Gene (Jill) Wilts, Bruce (Christi) Wilts, Kelly (Rick) Ripp, & Calvin (Kristen Lindberg) Gellatly; his grandchildren: Amy, Megan, Jolene, Amelia, Hunter, Mackenzie, Rachael, Holli, Samantha, Colton, & Garrett; his great-grandchildren: Bailey, Wyatt, Aiden, Westin, Skylar, Hazel, Parker, Gavin, & Nathan; a brother, Gayle (Glenda) Wilts; special nieces: Kelly, Traci, Teresa; and a nephew, Korey.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents and grandchildren Sarah & Brian Wilts.
