Gary "Woody" Gentz

GARY (WOODY) WAYNE GENTZ, age 79, of Le Center, died with his family at his side on Friday, July 25, 2025, at Mayo Clinic Health Care System in Mankato.

Born on October 18, 1945, in New Prague, MN, he was the son of Adolph and Mabel (Schultz) Gentz and grew up in Le Center. He attended Le Center High School where he was a star athlete along with his brothers. Woody married Kathy Schloesser in 1966 and they were blessed with two children.

He attended Mankato State University and The Minnesota School of Business. He began his career at Control Data Corporation followed by 32 years at American Collectors Association. He retired from Jostens at the age of 58.

Woody was a 20-year volunteer of the Le Center Fire Department, Colonel Wayne’s chicken crew, and the Le Center Community Club. He enjoyed golfing, softball, dancing, playing cards, traveling with his family and friends, attending his children’s and grandchildren’s school and sporting events, and making people laugh.

Woody spent his retirement years working (and playing) at the Le Center VFW. He is beloved by many and was always ready with a humorous story or a good joke.

Woody is survived by his wife Kathy; sisters: JoAnne (Stan) Morrow of Dallas and Bonnie (Terry) Lang of Montgomery; son, Rob (Jody) Gentz of Apple Valley; daughter, Paula (Rick) Beer of Cleveland; grandchildren: Noah Beer of Bloomington, Lucas (Mady) Beer of Plymouth, Kristina Beer (fiancé, Dain Benson) of Farmington, and Brandon Gentz of Apple Valley.

He is preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Ralph Cummings; brothers: Alison and Bill.

Mass of Christian Burial to be held Friday, August 1, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Le Center. Visitation at 8:00 AM, funeral to follow at 11:00 AM. Lunch to follow at St. Mary’s social hall.

The family respectfully requests no flowers or plants.