Gordon Garpestad, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2024, at Glendive Extended Care. Gordon was born on March 6, 1942, in Glendive, MT, to Gunlief and Selma Garpestad. He was the youngest of three boys. Gordy and his older brothers; Arnie and Gene, grew up on the family farm east of Circle. Gordy was educated in Circle graduating with the class of 1960. He then went to a trade school in Texas. Upon returning to Circle, he worked with his uncles’, Art and Bill Idland. He then worked for the State Highway Department for 30 years.
Gordy and Mary Ann Wahl dated in high school; were homecoming king and queen candidates during their freshman year. They married in 1962 and just celebrated their 62nd anniversary! This union brought two sons: Mike and Monte. They purchased the Tastee Freez in 1970 and sold it after 25 years! They touched many lives and made many memories during those years.
His love of baseball was special. He played Babe Ruth baseball in Glendive and made it to the regional tournament in Kellogg, ID. He was thrilled to watch the Babe Ruth World Series held in Glendive in 1961. Gordy was proud to watch grandson Gunnar play the game he loved from t-ball through college. When his son, Mike, bought the ranch by Glendive, Gordy was in his element. He spent many days helping Mike; even bought some cows of his own.
Gordon is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Ann, two devoted sons, Michael (Joni) and Monte (Lisa), his legacy continues through his grandchildren; Natalia (Yan) Garpestad, Gunnar (Kayla) Garpestad, Ryar Garpestad, Charlotte Garpestad, Evelyn Garpestad, and Gannon Mac Garpestad, each of whom brought immense joy and pride to his life. He was also blessed with great grandchildren; Piper Ridler, Barrett Rausch, and Gracie Garpestad.
Gordon’s life was a testament to the values of love, family, and dedication. His memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved him.
A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at 10 a.m. at Riverview Cemetery in Circle.
Service Schedule
Graveside Service
10:00 a.m.
Wednesday July 31, 2024
Riverview Cemetery
37 McCune Rd.
Circle, Montana 59215
Service Schedule
Graveside Service
10:00 a.m.
Wednesday July 31, 2024
Riverview Cemetery
37 McCune Rd.
Circle, Montana 59215
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Sherri Kettner says
Maryann, Mike, Monty and families,
We are so sad to hear of Gordy’s passing. He was so fun to be around! He took Pat under his wing as a young guy working at MDT, we enjoyed sharing holidays and sporting events with all of you. You are more family than friends to us! May Gods rest in peace. I’m sure he and my Dad are chatting up a storm in heaven.
The Kettner’s
Tammy Naasz Enghusen says
MaryAnn and family,
I’m so sorry to hear of Gordy’s passing. You both helped me in life when I worked for you at the Tastee Freeze! Loved that job. Gordy was so funny! I remember when our basketball team and cheerleaders got snowed in at Lindsay, at the bar, and he drove home through the snow drifts to get the snow plow. We all followed him back to Circle as he plowed the roads. He was such a hero!! Sending hugs and prayers to you all! Tammy Naasz Enghusen
N. Phillip Anderson says
SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT Gordy’s passing. Lots of good memories of the family. Peace be with the family
Donita Clarin says
Maryann and family,
So sorry to hear of Gordy’s passing. He was so kind to me when I worked for you at the Tastee Freez. I still remember the fire that early morning and how we all got out ok. I learned a lot from both of you in those early years. My heartfelt condolences.
Karen (Hart) Carlisle says
So sorry to hear of Gordy’s passing. I so much enjoyed my time working at the TF! Hugs to Maryann, Mike and Monte.
Florence Meissner says
Dear Garpestad family. So sorry to hear of Gordy’s passing. He was such a nice person. I wish you God’s peace and prayers coming you way.
Denise Mallo says
MaryAnn and family so sorry to hear about Gordy. So many great memories working at the TF with him. Hugs and prayers for your family.
Debbie (Bond) Wagner says
Mary Ann and family, my thoughts and prayers to all of you with the loss of Gordy. So many memories from our days at the Tastee Freeze…particularly a special bet that had to do with fitting through the little window in the old building. Needless to say I lost and Gordy won! Those were such fun times. Hugs to all of you.
Travis and Julie Borst says
Mary Ann, Mike and family, I am so sorry to hear about Gordy. He was such a wonderful guy. Our Thoughts and Prayers with you all during this time.
Nina Waller says
So sorry. He was a great guy. How many young people did he and MaryAnn leave an impression with from TasteeFteez? One good guy
Patsy kuntz says
So sorry to hear of Gordies passing. We had many good times at the Taste Freeze . Gordy always had a smile. You both taught me alot about life. Hold the memories close.God bless you and the families.
Pauline Gackle says
Garpestad Family,
Oh my goodness, so sorry to hear of Gordys passing! What great memories of good times at the TF!! We’re praying for you and your loved ones! God bless you!
Myron and Pauline
Mark Wheatley says
Rest in peace Gordy…. my prayers are with you Maryann, Mike, and Monte and the families. He was a great guy and will be missed by everyone. Stacey still talks fondly of working with him at the Tastee Freeze.
Steve and Anita Wheatley says
Maryann and family,
We are so very sorry to hear of Gordy’s passing. Our love, thoughts, and prayers go out for all of you.
Jim Cowell says
I’m so sorry to hear of Gordie’s death Maryann. May God give you comfort as you grieve.
Marge and Bob Moore says
Mary Ann And boys , I am so sorry for you all but Gorgie is not suffering any more and is in the arms of our beloved lord. Sending my love to you all at this time.
Ellen Hart says
MaryAnn and family: So very sorry to hear of Gordy passing. So many Taste Freez memories. Loved his smile
Dorrie Beach says
MaryAnn and family,
So sorry for the your loss of Gordy. Sending thoughts and prayers your way! Cherish your many memories!
Tom and Brenda Atkinson says
MaryAnn and Fam,
Sad for the loss of Gordy. Many memories of standing/ordering at the TF window. One comes to mind of the GMC picup backed up near the front glass window and spinning out across the parking lot. Gave a new name to “Take Out” as it took out the glss window! God’s comfort and prayers in your time of loss.
Jerry and Donna Buxbaum says
Mike , Maryann and family ,sorry for the loss of your loved one.Hugs an prayers now and the coming days
D Zabrocki says
Remembering working with the whole family. Will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers 🙏