Gary A. Chaika (SMSGT, Retired USAF), age 84, of Sauk Rapids, MN, passed away on Saturday, October 17, 2020. He was born on June 27, 1936 in St. Cloud, MN to Jerome H. Sr. and Hildagarde (Zilmer) Chaika. Gary graduated from Sauk Rapids High School as an outstanding athlete; after high school Gary enlisted in the Air Force where he served for 26 years and played base level football and basketball. On April 25, 1959, Gary married Audrey Laing and together they celebrated 61 years of marriage and had three children. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards, and trips to the casino. He was a lifetime member of the VFW Post 6992 and American Legion Post 254
He is preceded in death by his Parents, Jerome H. Sr. and Hildagarde; Step-father, Al Smith; Brothers, William (Renate), Thomas, Phil, Jim, Jerome Jr. and Nephew, Michael.
Gary is survived by his Loving Wife of 61 years, Audrey; Children, Mark (MaDonna), Mary (Kenny) Duray, and Kathy (Jim) Schuler; Grandchildren, Josh, Jere, Jon, Kendall, and J.R.; Great-grandchildren, Ethan, Evan, Alexis, Jackson, Landon, Jameson and Lincoln; Sister, Joan Edwards of California; Brother, Chuck (Lowen) Smith; Sister-in-laws, Mary Jane Chaika, Alyce Chaika, Joyce Chaika, and many Nieces and Nephews.
Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be 2pm Tuesday, October 27, 2020 at Sacred Heart Church
(2875 10th Ave NE, Sauk Rapids MN) with Fr. Tom Knoblach officiating. Visitation will begin at 1pm on Tuesday at church.
Private interment with Military Honors will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.
Gary’s family would like to give a special thank you to the Centra Care Hospice Nurses for the wonderful care and support they provided for him every day.
www.GearhartAnokaChapel.com
