Gary C Follett

Age 77 of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, passed away on July 10, 2026.

Gary was born on April 19, 1949, in Fargo, North Dakota, to Charles ("Chuck") and Arline Follett. He was the eldest of two sons and was raised in nearby Moorhead, MN.

Gary graduated from Moorhead High School in 1967. He went on to earn his bachelor's degree in English from Carleton College in Northfield, MN in 1971, later earning his Master's degree in Vocational Technical Education from the University of Minnesota. Gary was a resident of St. Louis Park for more than 40 years before his passing.

Gary began his career as an English teacher, where he influenced the lives of countless students at Springfield High School in Springfield, MN. In 1978, he joined the Special Education Division of District 287. During his years with the district, Gary worked at The Cavanagh School in Crystal and later at Hennepin Technical College in Brooklyn Park, where he remained until his retirement. Beyond the classroom, Gary was a dedicated advocate for his colleagues, proudly serving as a steadfast union representative and contract negotiator for his local Education Minnesota teachers union.

Gary was a steady and generous presence in the lives of his son and daughter-in-law, Travis and Erin, and his grandchildren. When Travis and Erin married, Gary accepted and welcomed Erin with open arms, always treating her with respect and love. Travis and Gary held regular lunch dates, during which they would discuss the state of the world, family, childhood memories, and more. When his grandchildren were small, he could be found playing My Little Pony or attending one of their birthday parties at the play park. As they grew, he showed immense interest and investment in their education, special events and ceremonies, and everyday lives. He was so proud of each of their accomplishments, sharing these sentiments in one of his last communications with his family. Quick to share a laugh or a good story, he showed up in meaningful ways for his family, and always enjoyed a meal and conversation shared together. He listened with intention and showed a deep care and interest in the lives of all those he encountered. His integrity and dignity were admired by those who knew him.

Gary enjoyed traveling in warmer climates on solo trips and with friends, visiting with his extended family at Bad Medicine Lake, and the occasional round of golf. He was a lifelong avid reader. Gary was a philanthropist and carried with him a deep sense of justice and acceptance for all people.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents and his former spouse, Cathy Ziegler. He is survived by his son, Travis (Erin) Follett; his grandchildren, August and Evelynn Follett; his brother, Glen (Mary) Follett; his nephew, Charley Follett and family; his niece, Laura Follett-Larson and family; other extended family; and several close lifelong friends.

No formal services are planned at this time. If a celebration of life is held in the future, details will be shared with family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent in care of his son, Travis Follett, who will distribute all memorials in accordance with Gary's wishes.