Gary Lee Einertson, age 82 of Westbrook, passed away Friday, August 7, 2026 at his home, following a hard-fought battle with cancer. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Stephens Funeral Service – Westbrook Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Gary Lee Einertson was born June 19, 1944, in Slayton, Minnesota, to Orville L. and Alice M. (Larson) Einertson. He was baptized and confirmed at Bethany Lutheran Church in Storden and remained a lifelong member of the congregation. Gary graduated from Storden High School and, following graduation, began working at the Storden Farmers Elevator. He also farmed alongside his dad, Orville, and his uncle, Elmo Einertson. On October 3, 1964, Gary was united in marriage to the love of his life, Wandalee Herbst, in Jeffers, Minnesota. Together, they made their home in Storden and were blessed with four daughters: Lori, Angie, Tiffanie, and Lindsay. In 1983, Gary and Wandalee purchased his parents’ farm, and Gary took over the farming operation. Over the years, he raised crops, hogs, cattle, and even Siberian Husky dogs. Farming was a way of life for Gary, and he took great pride in working the land and caring for the many things that depended on him. Gary was dedicated to his community and church. He served on the township board, was a Storden firefighter for more than 30 years, served on the Bethany Lutheran Church Council, and was a member of the Pork Producers and Sportsman’s Club. He was a man who stayed busy and could always find something to work on. He enjoyed gardening, tending to his apple trees, and raising bees. He was incredibly handy and found satisfaction in woodworking, tinkering, and keeping the lawn perfectly mowed. Gary and Wandalee enjoyed riding motorcycle, traveling to many places on two wheels. When he wasn’t farming or working on one of his many projects, Gary found enjoyment and relaxation fishing and spending time in the Boundary Waters. Gary was known for being stubborn and determined, qualities that served him well throughout his life. Beneath that strong-willed nature was a deep and abiding love for his wife; his daughters and sons-in-law; his grandchildren; and his great-grandchildren. His family was at the heart of his life, and the memories they made together will be treasured for generations to come.

Gary is survived by his wife, Wandalee; daughters: Lori (Devin) Nelson of Golden Valley, Angie (Jerry) Hemmingsen of Westbrook, Tiffanie (Lonnie) Ewy of Westbrook, and Lindsay (Andy) Sabin of Marshall; grandchildren: Cody (Mary) Nelson, Carli (Colin) Huffman, Nora (Mason Gode) Hemmingsen, Hadlee Hemmingsen, Hailey (Reed) Bakken, Makayla (Parker) Freeburg, and Ella Ewy; four great-grandchildren: McCoy & Melaina Bakken, Charlotte Freeburg, and Soren Huffman; and many other friends and relatives. He is preceded in death by his parents Orville and Alice Einertson, parents-in-law Chris and Verona Herbst, uncle Elmo, and his dear Cocker Spaniel Daisy.