Gary Oakland

Gary Oakland, age 68 of Blue Earth passed away February 28, 2023 at United Hospital District in Blue Earth. A celebration of life will be held 5-7PM Friday April 14 at Patton Funeral Home.

Gary was born November 10, 1954 to Marvin and Lavine (Bertelson) Oakland in Owatonna, MN. After his mother passed in 1959, he was raised by his grandmother, Alma, in Albert Lea where he graduated high school and attended community College. He then went on to graduate Austin Technical College, where he majored in Boilers and Engineering Mechanics. Gary moved to Blue Earth in 1976 and began his career at United Hospital District. There he met his future wife, Bonnie, who happened to work at UHD as well. They were married in October 1976. They had one child, Mandie Cherie in 1985. He taught her everything from frying an egg at six years old, to how to drive, use power tools, and the importance of doing your best at whatever you do.

Gary worked in the maintenance department for 42 ½ years, keeping the building running smooth and up-to-code; spending off-time creating checklists and being on-call on weekends often. Gary was a loyal and dedicated employee of the United Hospital and member of Blue Earth.

 Gary loved taking the scenic route on day trips using his well earmarked State Park and Trail Book that he was gifted from the hospital.

Left to cherish memories of him are his daughter Mandie Johnson of Blue Earth and his sister Marilyn Bleckeberg of Albert Lea, and his nephew John Bleckeberg also of Albert Lea, his niece Ann Erickson and her family of Alden, and his dog, whom he referred to as his “good daughter” Gracie Mae, Mandie’s miniature schnauzer service dog.

He is preceded in death by his grandmother Alma, both parents and wife Bonnie who passed December of 2015 after battling cervical cancer for eight years.

Gary was a dedicated employee, patient father, caring husband and his dry wit and bright smile will be missed by his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Faribault County Humane Society would be greatly appreciated.