Gary R. Assarsson

June 9, 1937 - June 24, 2016

Gary R. Assarsson was born in Spirit Lake, Iowa on June 9, 1937. He was the oldest of three children born to Fred and Ruth (Malone) Assarsson. Gary went to be with his Lord June 24, 2016. He passed away in his home suddenly with his wife and daughters by his side. Gary married Barbara Barta on November 15, 1958 at St Pius X Catholic Church in Ainsworth, Nebraska. To this union three children were born, Mike, Annette and Julie. Gary and Barb raised their family and spent 36 years on their ranch south of Long Pine. Gary and Barb enjoyed their adventurous personalities and traveled extensively throughout the United States the past several years. They always wondered how they could "top" each trip they took. The winters found them in the coastal bend of Texas and the fall found them in the northwest along the Columbia River fishing for King Salmon. They enjoyed the many friends they met along the way. Gary loved his home and all the time spent with family and friends. He spent hours restoring antique tractors and classic cars. That was his passion. Gary is preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Ruth Assarsson. He is survived by his wife, Barbara of Long Pine, daughters, Annette (Mike) Lehn, and Julie (Dave) Priest, all of Long Pine; son, Mike (Beccy) Assarsson of Aberdeen South Dakota; five grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren; brother, Clifford (Pauline) Assarsson of Ainsworth, and sister, Louree (Ernie) Beguin, also of Ainsworth; along with nieces and nephews. Graveside Services were held on Tuesday, June 28, 2016 in the Grandview Cemetery at Long Pine. Father Phil Flott officiated at the service. Memorials were suggested to the family in his name for future designation.