"Our thoughts and prayers are with Gary's family. Gary was a long time member of the MN Society for Respiratory Care (MSRC) and his work in founding a Southern MN asthma camp will forever be appreciated. Gary made a difference in the lives he touched!
~Colleen Reisdorf, RRT, MSRC President
on behalf of the MSRC"
In loving memory of
Gary Haggerty
February 12, 1951 - July 21, 2019
Gary Haggerty, 68, of Winona, died peacefully at his home surrounded by family after a lengthy illness on Sunday, July 21, 2019. Gary was born February 12, 1951 to Kenneth and Mabel (Miller) Haggerty in Lake City, MN. Gary grew up the youngest of 9 on a farm outside of Rochester near Hammond. Growing up on a farm he learned the value of hard work. He graduated from John Marshall High School in 1969 before volunteering for the National Guard for 6 years. After high school he attended and graduated from RCC/Mayo School of Respiratory Care. In 1975 he accepted a Respiratory Therapist position at Community Memorial Hospital (Winona Health). He worked at CMH/Winona Health for forty years, and for Philipps Bus Service for over 15 years as well. In 1981 he met Patty Lucca while working at the hospital. The two of them found love and began their beautiful story. They were married on April 2, 1982 in Winona. He loved spending time with his family and instilled his work ethic in his children. Many weekends were spent outside with Dad doing various activities such as camping and fishing. In 1984, Gary created and directed "Camp We-No-Wheeze", a summer camp for asthmatic kids that brought family, friends and community together for over 20 years. He was a loyal friend, brother, son and husband. A patient, loving father. A gentle soul. His character, humor and good nature will leave a legacy behind far greater than any awards or recognition ever could.
He is survived by his loving wife, Patty; children, Patrick Haggerty, Benjamin (Andrea) Lucca and their children Vivian and Livia, Lindsey (Timothy) Przybylski; siblings, Arlene Roberson, Dora Lee (John) Springer, Joanne (Charles) Nord, Kenneth (Mary) Haggerty, Sharon (Russell) Billings, Dianne (Sidney) Anderson, Rita Tollefsrud. He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Marlys; brothers in-law, David Tollefsrud, Grant Larson, Don Roberson.
A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, July 26, 2019 at Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Winona. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m., Thursday, July 25, 2019 at Hoff Celebration of Life Center, Goodview and one hour prior to the service at church. Private family interment will happen at a later date. In Lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the Gift of Life House in Rochester or Team Vogel in Winona (www.teamvogelvscancer.org).
Please view his tribute video and leave a memory at hofffuneral.com
Tributes
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Gary's family. Gary was a long time member of the MN Society for Respiratory Care (MSRC) and his work in founding a Southern MN asthma camp will forever be appreciated. Gary made a difference in the lives he touched! ~Colleen Reisdorf, RRT, MSRC President on behalf of the MSRC"
"Patty and Family, It is never easy losing someone you love, let alone suddenly. Keep his memory alive by remembering the good times, the laughs, and smiles. He is close to your heart! Todd and Jackie Stevens"
"Oh Patty I am so sorry! I only met him once but could tell from all your family's Facebook postings what a wonderful man he was! You certainly have an awesome Angel watching over you now! I work in a cancer center and see how this horrible disease takes so many! I pray a cure comes soon and so sorry it did not come soon enough. Thought, prayers and love to you and your family!"
"I?m so sorry I?m not able to be there for Gary?s services. You are all in my thoughts and I?m extending a big hug to all of you. Gary was a great man and has a wonderful family. I?m blessed to have gotten to meet him. Love, Sarah Urbick"
"Keeping the family of Gary in my thoughts and prayers, treasure the many wonderful memories that will bring peace and comfort.... RIP!"
"Patty and family, so sorry for your loss."
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. We send our sincerest sympathies. "
"Lindsey, Hugs, thoughts, and prayers to you and your family. My deepest sympathies to all of you."
"My sympathy to Gary's family.So sorry for your loss. From cousin Barb (Miller) Cutts"
"Gary was much more than my father-in-law, he was a great friend. I am very grateful of the time awarded to me with him. Goodbye for now to a great and humble friend. Tim Przybylski "
"Patty and family,I am so sorry. Gary and I worked together in the old CMH days. Take care"
"Dad- you were my rock. You were so kind to people and everyone who knew you had nothing but great things to say. My heart breaks to know you are gone forever, but know you will always be watching over us. You fought a hard fight, and for me to see the positivity in you no matter what was thrown at you, has changed me for the better. Our lives will never be the same, we lost the best part. We will always talk about you and have tons of great memories to share....too many to even list. One thing dad always said to me "You are my favorite daughter, Linz" (which is true because I am his only daughter) Thanks for being the best, you truly were. Love you always....Lindsey"
"Until we meet again My Friend. Fondly, Jeanine"
"To the family and friends of Gary, kathy and I wish you all our strength and support. RIP my friend! "
"Dearest Patty and family, I am so very sorry to hear of Gary's passing. May your wonderful memories and God's arms give you comfort in this difficult time. ??? "
"We fondly remember Gary's smile, laughter, and genuine kindness. He will be missed by all. Love, Mike, Jill, & Family"
"? Your father was an extremely caring and kind man. I know that no matter where you are, he will always be watching over you. Our thoughts are with you during this time. We are so sorry for your loss Carl and Pam Skime"
"So many great memories of working together. He will be missed. My sincere condolences on your loss."