Gary Joseph Vink, age 70, of Sandstone, MN passed away at his home on Thursday, March 3, 2022.

Gary was born on January 3, 1952, in Mora, MN to Joseph and Beverly (Schmidt) Vink. He lived several different places when younger including a couple of years in Anchorage, AK, but spent most of his life in Duxbury, MN. Gary attended and graduated from the Sandstone High School and spent a brief time at UMD in Duluth, MN. He held a variety of jobs as a young man but came home to help run the Duxbury Store. Gary was a founding member of the Duxbury Fire Department and continued to be an active member for many years. He believed in making the community better for the next person and did his civic duty being a member of the Wilma township board.

Gary enjoyed anything that challenged the mind; trivia, Jeopardy (he seldom missed a show) and you always wanted him on you team! He enjoyed hunting, music, writing lyrics, spending time with friends having a beer and interesting conversations. When he had a chance Gary loved watching the Twins and Vikings, cheering them on no matter what.

Gary is preceded in death by Joe and Bev Vink; brother-in-laws, Steve Nelson and Bruce Johnson; nephew, Caleb Johnson; and close friend, Mark Pallow.

Gary is survived by sisters, Teri Nelson of Lake Mills, WI, Martha Simecek of Aitkin, MN; brothers, Bryan (Sharon) Vink of CA and OR; nieces and nephews, David Nelson of Janesville, WI, Danella (Tom) Radke of Lake Mills, WI, Derek (Sherie) Nelson of Lake Mills, WI, Bryan Vink of The Dalles, OR, Dan (Shauna) Vink, Moab, UT, Laura (Jorge) Vink of The Dalles, OR, Jason (Lyndsay) of Ramona, CA; Erik (Sabrena) Johnson of TX, Owen Johnson, Svea (Matt) Bretz of Aitkin, MN; many great nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Duxbury Volunteer Fire Department will be appreciated.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Gary Saturday, March 26, 2022 from 2pm to 6pm at the Wilma Township Hall in Duxbury, MN.

Arrangements by Methven Funeral and Cremations Services of Sandstone, MN.