Donald R. Gard

Donald R. Gard, age 88, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2024, at Prescott Nursing and Rehab surrounded by his loving family. Donald was born in Minneapolis to Ralph and Vera (Swenson) Gard. Donald's life journey was marked by faith, family, service, and an enduring passion for nature.

Donald's formative years were spent attending Red Wing Schools until his graduation from Augustana Academy, Canton, South Dakota, in 1953. He enlisted in the Army in 1954, where he demonstrated his commitment to duty and honor.

In 1957, Donald married Sally Sikkink, and together they were blessed with three children: Deanna, Paul, and Tom. In 1960, Donald's path led him to Sandstone, where he played a pivotal role in supervising the opening of the Sandstone Correctional Facility. His dedication and leadership were evident as he embarked on a career with the Minnesota State Highway Patrol in 1962, beginning in Duluth, MN. His commitment to public service was unwavering, and he served with distinction, later moving to the SE Rochester Headquarters.

Balancing his law enforcement career with a love for the land, Donald established roots in Kenyon where he cultivated 200 acres of corn and soybeans, raised pigs and steer, and reveled in the joys of farming. Donald was very active on the Kenyon school board and the Arts Council. He cherished precious moments with his family, instilling in them a deep appreciation for hard work and the beauty of nature.

In 1982, Donald embarked on a new chapter of his life, marrying Patricia (Pat) Miller and embraced her daughters, Rande Barrowman and Tari Canales, as his own. Together, they pursued their dream of living in the Northwoods, where they built three lakeside homes and created countless memories filled with laughter, fishing expeditions, and gatherings with cherished family and friends.

After 28 years of dedicated service, Donald retired from the Minnesota State Patrol in 1992, bidding farewell to a career marked by integrity and compassion. Embracing his newfound freedom, he traded his badge for a camera, capturing the beauty of the Northwoods.

In his later years, Donald returned to Red Wing to be closer to his children and grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent in their company. He will be remembered by his loving wife, Pat; his children, Deanna Gard, Paul Gard (Debbie), Rande Barrowman (Douglas), and Tari Canales (Michael); 9 grandchildren: Brent, Greg, Alex, Zach, Elizabeth, Christopher, Michael, April, and Emily; 12 great-grandchildren: Joseph, Isaac, Landon, Ethan, Autumn, Xander, Bryce, Charlotte, Ada, Aubrey, Ayoven, and Pherric; cousins, Kathryn Sandquist and family, Ray Sands and family, Bette Swanson, Sharon Walker and family; and by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Don is preceded in death by his loving son, Thomas Gard; parents; sister, Barbara Nield; broher-in-law, Ray Nield; and John Sandquist.

In his final act of generosity, Donald unselfishly donated his body to science through the Body Donation Program at Mayo Clinic, leaving behind a legacy of learning and healing. A service to honor Donald’s life will be held at 1:00 PM on June 10, 2024, at United Lutheran Church, 628 W 5th St, Red Wing, MN 55066.

Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St, Hastings, MN 55033, is handling the arrangements.