Gary and Mary Goetsch
Married 53 years ago today!
Fifty-three years ago today, Gary and Mary Goetsch were married in Cresco. At the time, Gary was in the USAF and Mary was working as a beautician in Cresco. They met when Gary was home on leave and Mary was renting a room from Gary’s grandmother in Cresco.
Gary and I have been friends for over 50 years, with the common link being Bud Weatherford, former teacher at LSHS and then a teacher at Cresco. Gary and I were both budding ham radio operators and Bud sponsored a club for folks with that interest at the high school in Cresco. Kind gentleman that he was, he allowed me to attend.
As it turns out, our relationship goes beyond that: we have common relatives! Wilt and Gary Thomas are second cousins of Gary. I am the Thomases second cousin once removed.
Gary made a career of the Air Force; I had had enough fun after four years so got out. But in 1960/61, we were both stationed at Maxwell AFB in Alabama. While there, I was the babysitter for their young daughter, Karen. I look forward to seeing her for the first time in over 50 years at Christmas time!
Gary and Mary have three children: Karen, Julia, and Ted. They live in SC, MN, and WI, respectively. Gary and Mary live in Farmington, MN—about 3 miles from Pat’s sister! This provides an opportunity for us to get together occasionally on our visits to Minnesota.
They have spent their last several winters here at Hidden Valley Ranch in Mission, TX. In fact, they introduced us to that park so this winter we are a short block apart! As you can see, life here is fairly relaxing!
Gary and Mary relaxing on their anniversary