My deepest sympathy to the Vigoren children and grandchildren. I worked with Gary in Mechanical Maintenance at the Sartell Paper Mill . Gary was a GREAT guy. He was always happy and had a smile on his face. He used to sit and talk with me and share life stories. Gary told me about his faith in Jesus Christ and how the Lord had helped him through life’s challenges. When I heard of Gary’s passing, it was very sad for me, but I knew that when he closed his eyes for the last time, Gary opened his eyes in Heaven with his Savior Jesus. Take comfort in knowing that Gary is happy forever.
Gary W. Vigoren
September 20, 1949 – February 4, 2026
Memorial services celebrating the life of Gary W. Vigoren, age 76, of Sartell, will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at the Daniel Funeral Home in St. Cloud. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until the time of the service on Sunday at the funeral home. Burial services will be held at Camp Ripley 9:00am Tuesday, February 17 2026
Gary was born on September 20, 1949 in Bagley, Minnesota to Roy and Genevieve (Ysen) Vigoren. He served honorably in the United States Army, being deployed in 1971 to Vietnam. Gary worked as a Millwright for many years, retiring from the Verso Paper Mill in Sartell.
Gary deeply valued time spent with friends and family, finding his greatest joy in moments shared with those he loved most. He especially treasured his role as a grandfather to his six grandchildren and delighted in being part of their lives. Gary loved creating meaningful connections and often expressed his care for others through the time and attention he gave them.
He had a strong love for the outdoors and enjoyed golfing and spending time in nature, passions that once led him to live in Alaska for several years. Gary was a gifted woodworking artist who continually created handcrafted wooden pieces for friends and family. His woodworking was more than a hobby, it was a heartfelt expression of generosity and creativity. He also enjoyed photography and writing, using each art form to capture memories and share his unique perspective on the world.
He is survived by his children, Eric (Katie) of Colorado; Mike (Kristen) of Big Lake, Trina (Cory) Peeters of Sartell and his beloved grandchildren, Brady, Brooklyn, Benjamin, Molly, Thomas and Ms. Mia as well as his brother Steve (Peggy) and sister Cathy (Billy) both of International Falls.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents.
Donations are preferred in lieu of flowers.
Guestbook
We have been friends with Gary since high school & have many memories to remember him by. Our saddest memory was saying goodbye to him, while he was standing in line with thousands of guys getting ready to board planes for Vietnam, at McCord Airforce base in Tacoma, Washington. He thankfully came home & now we have to say a final goodbye w deep sympathy to the family.
We have been friends with Gary since high school and college. He remained a good friend over the years. He often stopped by to visit when he was in the Falls to see his mom. He got wood from us to make his famous bowls, which we have two of. Our condolences to the family for your loss. We will miss him.
My sympathy’s to all, Gary was a great guy. I worked with Gary his whole career at the paper mill. Many fond memories in the TMP and 450 lunch room. May he rest in peace.
I am so sorry to all of you for the loss of your dad, Grandpa, Brother and friend. Gary was such a kind caring person. Thoughts and prayers sent to all of you.
Services
Schedule Details
Memorial services celebrating the life of Gary W. Vigoren, age 76, of Sartell, will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at the Daniel Funeral Home in St. Cloud. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until the time of the service on Sunday at the funeral home. Burial services will be held at Camp Ripley 9:00am Tuesday, February 17 2026.