Gary Novak, Sr., 82, of Greaney, Minnesota, passed away on Saturday, February 22, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born in Chisholm, Minnesota, on October 20th, 1942, to Peter & Mary (Dolinar) Novak. Gary's mother was in ill health after his birth and died while he was very young. He grew up riding around in the pickup with his father, taking care of the farm responsibilities, the store and the tavern. These early farming experiences laid the groundwork for Gary's lifelong connection to Greaney and love of hay farming and raising livestock, especially beef cattle.

Gary's father died when Gary was 12 years old, resulting in Gary moving out of the Greaney area for several years to live with other family members. During Gary's absence he attended school and started a career in construction, learning to operate heavy equipment, manage an asphalt plant in Brainerd, Minnesota, as well as own and operate a number of different construction businesses. He didn't give up his love of farming during this time. He leased land and ran a few head of cattle in rural Anoka County, even while working construction. Before Gary moved back to the Greaney area, he married and started his family. He brought his family to visit Northern Minnesota for many years before he was able to finally realize his dream in the early 1970's and purchase back a part of his father's farm. It was a precious gift he was able to share with his younger children and later, his grandchildren, the opportunity to experience the life he loved so much as a young boy.

Gary was the happiest working his farm and raising his beef cattle and was privileged to continue this until the end. He was a gentle man with a big heart, beloved by his children, grandchildren, extended relatives, friends, neighbors, and as he refers to his cattle, "his girls".

Gary is survived by his brothers Keith and Beryl, his children, Debbie, Lisa, Wade (Lorrie), Clint (Janelle), Gary, Terry (Chris), and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by parents Peter and Mary, brother Bob, son Mike, sisters Florence and Shirley.

He will be greatly missed. Per Gary's wishes there will be no services.