Gordon "Gordy" H. Struss

Gordon Henry Struss, age 94, of Madison Lake, passed peacefully at his home on July 23, 2021, surrounded by his loving family. 

A Celebration of Gordy’s Life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 31, 2021 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Mankato. Visitation will be from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. at church.  Memorials may be given to Bethlehem Lutheran or the charity of your choice. Mankato Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Gordy was born to Albert and Elsie (Helmer) Struss on January 29, 1927, in Madelia. Gordy was sandwiched between his older brother Lyle and younger brother Kenny.  We always enjoyed hearing their stories and mischievous adventures! Gordy served his country with the U.S. Navy.  Gordy worked for Mankato Brewery as a distributor, Great Lakes Pipeline, Gordy's DX, and MSU until his retirement in 1991. He then managed the Vikings Souvenir Stand and drove for Heintz Auto from 1991-2003.  He met his life-long dancing partner, Janyce Olsen, at the Kato Ballroom.  They were united in marriage on November 5, 1949.  Gregg was born in 1950, Julie in 1953. This union brought many traveling adventures together, camping at Gull Lake and throughout Minnesota, trips to Mexico and Florida with friends. They loved lake life.

Gordy's greatest joys in life were his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was proudly known as "The Baby Whisperer".  He enjoyed people...and loved gatherings. He was also fond of hunting, fishing, bowling, and of course the Vikings and the Twins.  Interestingly enough, Jan and Gordy's anniversary generally coincided with the deer hunting opener with Gregg and family.  Gordy quite often returned home to find a lovely new piece of furniture adorning the living room,  making his "free meat", a little less free!  He volunteered at the Echo Food Shelf, MSU Basketball games and ushered often, during his nearly seventy years as a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Gordy and Jan received the Jim Schaffer Volunteer Award, in 2002, for their efforts with MSU.

Survivors include; son, Gregg and Jayne Struss of Baxter, daughter, Julie and Tim Missal of Forest City, IA; six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Marie Struss of Northfield; many special nieces and nephews.

Gordy was preceded in death by his wife, Janyce; one grandson, Tylor Jon; two brothers, Lyle (Rosemary) Struss and  Kenneth Struss.

Gordy was blessed with wonderful neighbors, who helped him through thick and thin.  Our family is forever grateful for your kindness.

As Gordy aged his main go to phrase was..."I just thank the Good Lord, that I can do what I can do"

Gordy will be dearly missed, not only his family but everyone who knew this kind, gentle, helpful man.