Gary L. Benrud

Gary Lee Benrud, 78, of Galesville, passed away peacefully, Wednesday, November 3, 2021, at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse, after losing his battle with cancer.

Gary was born December 7, 1942, in Black River Falls, to Martinus and Lorraine (Aldra) Benrud. He married Elaine (Mahlum), July 10, 1976, at Hardies Creek Lutheran Church in Ettrick. Gary proudly served his country for 20 years, first in the U.S. Navy then in the Air National Guard. After retiring from the military, he worked as a custodian at Northern Engraving in Galesville, until his retirement. Gary enjoyed spending time with his family, watching the Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Badgers, NASCAR Racing and local dirt track racing. He also enjoyed deer hunting, turkey hunting and fishing. He was a member of the VFW and American Legion.

Gary is survived by his wife, Elaine; sons: Gary (Rebecca) and John; his only grandson, Robert; sister, Gayle (Kenneth) Jacobs; brothers: David (Kaye), Dennis (Bobbie), Michael (Dawn); sisters-in-law: Karen Benrud, Lois Pollack; and many nieces, nephews and close friends.

Gary was greeted in Heaven by his parents; brother, Robert; brothers-in-law: Elwood Mahlum and Patrick Pollack.

The family will graciously accept memorials in lieu of flowers to help with funeral and medical expenses. A service, with military honors, was held Sunday, November 14, 2021, at 2:30 p.m., at The Gathering Place, 133 Mason Street, Onalaska. Visitation was held from 1:00 p.m. until the time of services. A Light luncheon followed. Pastor Joe Iverson officiated services.