Gerard Howard Spaeth, affectionately known as “Rardy,” passed away peacefully at his home in Ada, MN, on May 30, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on February 11, 1951, at the Ada Municipal Hospital, he was the son of Gerard Hanson Spaeth and Judy Barrett Spaeth. A proud graduate of Ada High School, Class of 1969, Gerard dedicated a significant part of his life to serving his country, enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1973. His military career took him to various locations, including Germany, Korea, the Persian Gulf, Alaska, and several bases across the United States, culminating in his retirement with rank of Command Sergeant Major from Ft. Campbell, Kentucky.
After returning to his roots in Ada in 1976, Gerard embraced the simple joys of life. He found happiness in ice fishing, elk hunting trips to Montana, and the thrill of trapping gophers. His love for the outdoors was matched only by his passion for working at Johnson Farms, where he found fulfillment in the labor of the land. Known for his remarkable ability to “tinker,” Gerard had a knack for fixing anything that came his way. He was a devoted fan of the Minnesota Vikings and the Minnesota Twins, often found enjoying old westerns or engaging in spirited games of Pinochle with friends and family.
Gerard’s commitment to his community was evident through his active involvement with the Ada Legion Post #26 and as a lifetime member of the VFW Post #7557. He served with honor in the honor guard for many years, demonstrating his deep respect for fellow veterans. His dedication to honoring those who served was exemplified by his instrumental role in the avenue of flags project at the Ada City Cemetery, where he was actively involved just days before his passing on Memorial Day 2025. Rardy’s spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His unwavering love for his country, his community, and his family will be remembered and celebrated.
Gerard is survived by his three sisters, Deborah (Ronald) Mickelson, Ada, MN, Pamela Gordon, Ada, MN, and Rebecca (Gary) Guida, Crosby, MN; many nieces and nephews, as well as numerous great-nieces and great-nephews who will carry his memory forward.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Gerard and Judy Spaeth; sister, Lucille Holte; brother-in-law, Perry Holte; niece, Sonja Benesh; and nephew, Andrew Holte.
Celebration of Life Service: 3:00 PM, Monday, June 23, 2025 at Fredrikson-Ganje Funeral Home, Ada, MN.
Visitation: Two hours prior to the service at the funeral home.
Inurnment with full military rites: Ada Municipal Cemetery, Ada, MN.
Please view our guestbook and share condolences online at www.fredriksonfh.com
Arrangements with Fredrikson-Ganje Funeral Homes Ada & Halstad, Minnesota
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