Gary M. Songer

Gary Montell Songer of La Crescent, Minnesota (formerly Chaska, Minnesota) passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on September 21, 2024, at the age of 72. 

He was born on January 4, 1952, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, to John and Maxine Songer; the elder of two brothers. He grew up on a farm on the ridge outside of Hokah and in his teenage years started working at local farms, milking cows and running machinery. Growing up as a country kid with endless open roads, he developed a passion for cars and motorcycles from a young age. 

After graduating from Caledonia High School in 1970, he pursued further education in Winona, Minnesota and studied draftsmanship. A job with the City of Maple Grove brought him north to the Twin Cities working with road design. He also worked as a bartender on the side, a job he enjoyed for the opportunity to connect with others. He later developed an interest in real estate and mortgage banking and spent the majority of the rest of his career working in that industry and made many lifelong friends along the way. 

 Gary had passion for photography and videography, capturing life’s special moments through his camera lens and showcasing the beauty of everyday life. He cherished spending time in nature, whether it was hunting deer, turkey, pheasant, or foraging for morel mushrooms. He also appreciated the simple pleasures of fishing and camping. 

 In addition to his outdoor pursuits, Gary had a keen interest in cars, computers, and the latest technology, always admiring their ingenuity and having to try the latest gadgets. His enthusiasm for understanding how things worked was evident. He enjoyed tackling various handyman and computer repair jobs, finding satisfaction in fixing things and using his technical skills to solve problems. 

Gary was a dedicated member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Chaska, where he generously volunteered countless hours supporting the church’s audio and visual needs. Whether for Sunday services or funerals, his behind-the-scenes work ensured that every gathering ran smoothly. His faith was very important to him. 

Gary will be remembered for his good humor, positive outlook, and carefree nature. His generosity and kindness touched the lives of many, and will continue to inspire those who knew him. He will be dearly missed. 

He is survived by his daughter, Alexis (Joel) Brummer of Carver, Minnesota; his brother, Jeff (Kathy) Songer of La Crescent, Minnesota; his niece, Jessica (Josh) Tovsen of La Crescent; great-niece Victoria of La Crosse, Wisconsin; great-nephew Austin of La Crescent; and great-niece Shelby, daughter of the late Jason Songer and Felicia (Micah) Rupprecht and their daughter Remy of La Crescent. 

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, John and Maxine Songer, and his nephew, Jason Songer. 

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 19th, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Caledonia, Minnesota, with Pastor Steven Meyer officiating. Visitation will begin at 9:30 AM and continue until the time of the service. 

Burial will take place at Evergreen Cemetery in Caledonia after the service, with a luncheon to follow in the church dining hall. 

A video booth will be available for those attending the service to share their favorite memories of Gary. These recordings will be compiled into a full video to be shared at a later date. If you'd like to participate, please come prepared to record your special memories. 

Cards and memorials in memory of Gary may be directed to 210 Ridgewood Drive, Chaska, MN 55318.