Gary William Oldenburg

Gary William Oldenburg, 91, of La Crescent, MN passed away Wednesday March 20, 2024 at his home. He was born in La Crescent in 1932 to Edward and Dorothy.  He was a graduate of Central High School in La Crosse, WI. He married Rita Zahn June 14, 1952 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Together they raised 2 sons. Gary was a man full of stories and laughs.  He was a husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend to many.  He was a hard worker over the years starting in the United States Naval Academy until 1963, then on to Trane Co and Lawrence Lake Marina, eventually becoming self-employed.  He had several business ventures that he eventually would work side by side with his two sons until retirement.  Gary was an outdoorsman and enjoyed fishing, trapping, hunting, and traveling with family and friends. You could often see him at the bowling alleys in the winter and at his boathouse in the summer. He also had a love of sports and watching the Twins and Vikings every chance he got. Gary loved his cat "Boots" and described him as the best cat ever. Gary was one to crack a joke at any moment in time.

He is survived by his son Gary "Puck" Oldenburg of La Crescent, daughter in law Karen Oldenburg of La Crescent, grandkids Jeremy, Nicole, Cody, Brittany, Michael (Sara), Kerry (Jeff), and Ashley, and 9 great grandchildren Owen, Makehnna, Montanna, Chloe, Logan, Lily, Peyton, Karson, and Camron.  He is also survived by 2 sisters in law, (Barb and Sue) and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his twin brother Gale at 3 years old, his four other brothers (Bill, Dave, Pat, Tony), his loving wife Rita, and his son Gale.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Crucifixion Catholic Church, La Crescent. Rev. John L. Evans, II will officiate. Burial will follow in the Crucifixion Catholic Cemetery. Friends may call at the church on Wednesday from 9:00 AM – 10:45 AM, with a eulogy to begin at 10:45 AM.