Gary Norby, 72, of LeRoy, Minnesota, died Thursday, July 14, 2016, as a result of injuries sustained while working in the woods on his home place.

Gary Keith Norby was born Oct. 4, 1943, to Lloyd Kermitt and Frances Elizabeth (Hamlin) Norby at St. Olaf Hospital in Austin, Minnesota. Gary was baptized and confirmed at Bennington Lutheran Church near Ostrander, Minnesota. He was a 1961 graduate of LeRoy-Ostrander High School. On June 29, 1963, Gary was united in marriage to Gwendolyn Jean Ullom at the United Methodist Church in Chester, Iowa. Together they made their home between LeRoy and Ostrander, Minnesota, where he spent his life raising three boys, farming, and giving back to the land he loved. Gary was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Ostrander, Minnesota. He was an active community member, loved nature, hunting, bowling, playing cards, spending time with family and friends, and most of all, adored his grandchildren who brought him so much joy.

Gary is survived by his wife, Gwen of LeRoy, Minnesota; sons: Mike (Kirstin) Norby of LeRoy, Greg (Becky) Norby of Ostrander, and Larry Norby of Chester, Iowa; beloved grandchildren: Nicholas (Amy) Norby, Taylor and Ashley Norby, and Cyndi and Emma Norby; great-grandchildren Spencer and Lydia Norby; sister Gayle (Gene) Reiland of Spring Valley, Minnesota; brother, Doug Norby of Rochester, Minnesota; uncle, Dean Hamlin of LeRoy; nephews; a niece; and cousins.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Frances; sister, Janet; grandparents; and many other extended family and loved ones.

Gary always stressed the importance of spending time with those you love and not dwelling in the past. Interment will be at Bethany Lutheran Cemetery. The immediate family will have a small memorial service at the gravesite while a Celebration of Life will take place following for extended family and friends from 4 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 20, 2016, at Laddy’s in Chester, Iowa. Condolences may be left online at www.hindtfuneralhomes.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to the family.