Gerhard Joseph Ehlert Jr., a loving son, brother, devoted husband, father, grandfather and cherished member of the Pelican Rapids community, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 9, 1947, in Breckenridge, Minnesota, to Gerhard John and Irene (Timp) Ehlert, Gery’s life was deeply rooted in the values of hard work, family, and service.
Growing up on a family farm near Kent, Minnesota, Gery’s early years were shaped by simple joys and strong community ties. He began his education in a one-room schoolhouse before attending high school in Breckenridge, where his enthusiasm for shop classes and involvement with the Future Farmers of America reflected his heartfelt connection to the land and farming life. Graduating in 1965, he soon answered the call to serve, joining the U.S. Marine Corps. His time in basic training at Camp Pendleton and subsequent service in Vietnam embody his courage and dedication. It was during his military service in Arizona that he met Glenys Arnold, the love of his life. They married on January 25, 1969, and lived in Flagstaff welcoming their daughters Carrie and Bethany.
Together, Gery and his family embrace farming life, first in the Campbell Tintah area and later establishing their own farm overlooking Prairie Lake. Gery’s passion for dairy farming flourished alongside his commitment to his family and community. His service extended beyond the farm as he later dedicated 23 years as Facilities Engineer and Supervisor of Environmental Services at Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Pelican Rapids.
Gery’s heart was full of love for his family and the land he nurtured. He was happiest working hard with his family, walking out to get the cows, putting up hay and cooling off in a lake. He enjoyed his daughters’ choir concerts and plays as they grew up, and getting together with his siblings and their families for summer barbecues. Blessed with four grandchildren, Gery loved visiting them in Saint Paul and Colorado. He helped Carrie and her sons with yardwork and projects and loved watching the classic cars going by during the summer shows. He enjoyed sitting on the front porch of his
daughter Bethany’s home, enjoying the mountains, hearing all the kids adventures and watching the farmers bring in the harvest. Holiday gatherings on the farm were a favorite time for him as all the kids gathered for movie fests and games and he and Glenys would cook together and share their love with everyone. Other interests ranged from history to classic cars and farm machinery, and he treasured long walks that reflected his contemplative spirit. Alongside Glenys, he served with the Rotary Club in Pelican Rapids.
He leaves behind his beloved wife of 57 years Glenys; daughters Carrie and Bethany; (son in law Bing); grandchildren Joseph and Jonathan, Madison and Nathan; siblings
Vince, Virgil (Merrilee), Patricia, David (Janice), and Sharon (Don); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends in the community.
Gery is preceded in death by his parents, Gerhard and Irene, and his sister Nancy.
Gery’s life was dedicated to Family, Farming, and Faith. His life was a testament to devotion, resilience, and love. We celebrate the remarkable man who touched so many lives with his quiet kindness, strength, and steadfast spirit. May his legacy continue to inspire all who knew him and his memory be a blessing to all who loved him.
A Celebration of life is being planned by the family and will be scheduled for this summer. Please share memories of Gery in the online tribute.
Online memories and condolences can be shared at www.KorsmoFuneralService.com
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