Garett "Gary" H. Bjornstad

Garett “Gary” Howard Bjornstad, 79, of Stoddard, WI and La Vernia, TX passed away peacefully on the morning of Sunday June 13, 2021 in La Crosse. Gary was born October 28, 1941 in Westby, WI to Hulda and Gehard Bjornstad. He attended Westby High School until he began farming full time at home on the family farm. In 1960, at the age of 19, he joined the United States Air Force. He served for two years, until he was honorably discharged.

He married Donna Widner in 1963 and they were blessed with three children. During these early years, Gary worked for Westby Creamery.  He moved on to work for many years, and eventually retire from Norplex/Isola.

After the passing of his wife Donna, Gary married Ruth Hendrickson in 2003 and they spent his retirement enjoying life. Gary was a devoted member of the Coon Valley American Legion Post 116.  He loved NASCAR and the Green Bay Packers, fishing, hunting, camping and travelling. Ruth and Gary became winter Texans, and spent years in La Vernia, TX during the cold months. He enjoyed watching the birds; particularly the Road Runners which always made him laugh.  Gary was a man of few words, but when he spoke it was worth listening to.  He was well known amongst his campground friends for his quick-witted one liners.

He is survived by his wife Ruth, two sisters, two sons, one daughter, two stepsons, four grandchildren, four great grandchildren and eight step grandchildren as well as many nieces, nephews and friends. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, one sister and his first wife Donna.

A prayer service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday June 21, 2021 at the Seland Funeral Home in Coon Valley. Visitation will be from 1pm until service time. Burial will follow at Coon Prairie Cemetery in Westby with military honors by the Coon Valley American Legion Post #116. Condolences may be given at selandsfuneralhome.com.