Gary D. Carlson

Gary D. Carlson, 74, a Stewartville, MN resident, died on Thursday (October 29, 2026) from complications of congestive heart failure at Mayo Clinic Rochester – St. Mary’s Campus.

Gary Dale Carlson was born on April 2, 1952 in Sioux Rapids, IA to Dale and Dorothy (Stone) Carlson. He moved with his family as a young boy to rural Stewartville where he grew up and attended Stewartville schools, graduating from Stewartville HS in 1970. He attended Mankato Technical College and worked as a buyer for an agriculture supply company until his retirement.

 In his younger days, Gary enjoyed hunting with his friends, camping, fishing and water skiing with his family on our beloved Lake Belle Taine in Northern, MN. Gary was also an active member of the Jaycees for several years, and he served as a volunteer fireman in Rollingstone, MN.  Gary was a caring father and grandfather who cherished his family and especially treasured the time spent with his grandsons. He had a special way of bringing smiles to those around him, often through his quick wit, quirky one-liners, and unmistakable sense of humor. Gary's passion for horses and the equine community spanned many years and left a lasting mark on the Minnesota horse industry. He proudly served as President of the Minnesota Pinto Horse Association (PtHA) from 1998–1999 and was an active board member, playing an instrumental role in the organization's growth and development. Gary was also deeply involved with the Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC), where he built lasting friendships and shared his love of the horse show community. Throughout his years in the industry, Gary announced at countless horse shows, including local open shows, 4-H, state, and breed-level competitions. Whether behind the microphone or ringside, he was always ready with words of encouragement, a little friendly heckling, and a genuine enthusiasm for those sharing the arena with him.

Gary's accomplishments in the show ring were equally remarkable. Across five different horses competing in PtHA and ApHC, he earned an incredible 11 World Championships and 8 Reserve World Champion titles. Yet, for Gary, the horse community was about so much more than ribbons and titles. He treasured the friendships, conversations, laughter, and camaraderie that came with every show. He was well known for his willingness to socialize, offer encouragement, and keep everyone entertained. And, of course, no horse show gathering was quite complete without Gary's famous Weber-grilled BBQ chicken, which he was always happy to prepare and share. He really loved his “horse family.” His contributions, humor, generosity, and love for the people in his life will be remembered fondly by the many people whose lives he touched along the way.

Gary is survived by his daughter Sherry ( Dave ) Steinhoff and 3 grandchildren: Micah, Isaiah and Caden, all of Kimberly, WI; sisters Connie (Dean) Kafka and Nancy (Steve) Mullenbach; brothers Bob (Diane) Carlson and Jay (Lori Carlson) and his step-mom Becky Carlson and his step-siblings, Kristine (Keith) Engstrand and Mark and Kurt Martig, and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Dale and Dorothy Carlson

A memorial service for Gary Dale Carlson will take place on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 11am at Zion Lutheran Church in Stewartville with Rev. Tim Bowman officiating with visitation at 10am. There will be a luncheon following the service in the fellowship hall.  Arrangements are with Griffin-Gray F.H. in Stewartville. Condolences and memories of Gary are welcome at www.griffin-gray.com In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the American Cancer Society.

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