Gary Francis Fox

Gary Francis Fox, age 82, of Hastings, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family, on Monday, August 25, 2025.

Gary was born on September 28, 1942, in Red Wing, Minnesota, to Alois and Annette (Ruhr) Fox. He grew up on the family farm near Miesville alongside his brothers, Dwayne and Tom. From his earliest years, Gary carried with him a lively spirit, mischievous, funny, and full of charm that remained with him throughout his life.

A graduate of Hastings High School, Gary went on to attend St. Paul Vocational School where he studied auto mechanics. On August 17, 1968, he married Jeanette Bauer, and together they raised four daughters, Shari, Dena, Kristi, and Jennifer, on the family farm. Alongside farming, Gary worked for many years as a salesman for Moorman’s Feed Co. where he built countless lasting relationships with friends and customers alike.

Gary proudly served in the National Guard for six years, achieving the rank of E5. He was very proud of his service to his country.

Gary found joy in simple but meaningful pleasures: tractors and cars, music and dancing, cheering on the Minnesota Vikings, and he was always ready for ice cream. He was very proud of his hair and often jokingly asked, “What do you think about my hair?” He loved people, was a natural talker, and left lasting impressions with his wit, warmth, and quick smile. He often sang and joked, even with his caregivers, bringing laughter wherever he went.

On April 16, 2004, Gary married Kathy O’Brien. Together they cherished life’s adventures, taking motorcycle trips, enjoying coffee with friends at King’s in Miesville, and sharing quiet moments on the swings beneath the old oak tree. That swing set, a place where Gary had played as a child with his grandmother and later with his daughters, grandchildren, wife, and friends, became one of the most special symbols of his life. One of his final labors of love was giving it a fresh coat of paint, leaving behind a reminder of his joyful presence.

Above all, Gary treasured his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy Fox; daughters, Shari Fox, Dena Luchsinger, Kristi (Todd) Bradley, and Jennifer Fox; stepson, Daniel Maher; grandchildren, Kristen, Andrew, Lauren, Max, Peyton, Fox, Connor, Gavin, Quinn, Anthony, and Zaria; two great grandchildren, Geneviene and Leo; brothers, Dwayne (Shirley) Fox and Tom Fox; along with nieces, nephews, and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, infant brother, and granddaughter, Trisha Maher.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 2035 Vermillion Street, Hastings, Minnesota. A visitation will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. prior to the service. A small reception will follow, and burial will take place at Lakeside Cemetery in Hastings