Gary Rabbe
April 6, 1950 ~ February 14, 2022
Gary Dean Rabbe, passed away on February 14, 2022, at Sanford Hospital in Fargo ND. His battle with serious medical issues in recent years showed his courage in facing life challenges with a smile. Even though a failing heart took him away from this world, his loving heart left a beacon of light for all who knew him.
Gary was born on April 6, 1950, in Williston, ND to Joel and Valborg Rabbe, and was the youngest of three brothers and six sisters. He attended school in Williston, ND, and after graduation attended college for accounting. Gary then met the love of his life, Deb while attending a dance in Montana. It was love at first sight, and they married on September 13, 1969. They were married for 49 years, until her passing in 2018. Fargo was home most of their married life and where they raised their two children. When first married Gary worked as a milkman, but his career was mainly in auto parts and worked for Napa Auto for several years. He was employed by HOM Furniture at the time of his death.
Gary and Deb loved traveling to small towns visiting local shops and restaurant. When not traveling, they enjoyed eating out and a good movie. Gary was an avid bowler and all most made it to the pros, he also enjoyed golfing but most of all he loved being with family and friends.
Gary was preceded in death by his beautiful wife, Deb Collings; his parents, Joel and Valborg Rabbe; his son, Daryn Rabbe; his son-in-law, Tommy Monson; his brothers – Duane Rabbe Sr. and Duane Stoller; his sister, Harriet; and his brother-in-law, Frank Hiser.
Gary is survived by his daughter, Rachel Monson of Fargo, ND; his grandchildren – Sammy, Vivian, Kyla and Conner; his sisters – Betty Johnson of Plentywood, MT; Judy McGinnis of Bremerton, WA; JoAnn Sexton of Williston, ND; Darlene Weslen of Williston, ND; and Diana Rabbe and Ray of Williston.
His cheerful attitude, great sense of humor and bright smile will be missed.
A graveside ceremony will be held in the spring at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Fargo ND, followed by a Celebration of Life.
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Gary’s Witt laughter and smiles will definitely be missed
Gary was my first friend in Williston when we attended Webster School. He will be missed by a lot of folks. My thoughts and condolences go out to his family who are very dear to my heart. RIP my friend.
No more pain uncle. You will be missed. I know you are surrounded by love.
My most sincere condolences to Gary’s family. You will be greatly missed. I am so glad I had the privledge of visiting with you & family this summer. Had alot of good memories & laughs with you. Fly high my friend, you earned your wings. RIP Gary. 🙏🙏🙏🙏 Prayers & thoughts going out to the family.
Rest In Peace with the angels my friend
I had a great time being his friend and Daryn’s friend. I played golf with the both of them and had a great time being with them. R.I.P. Mr. Gary Rabbe. Ill miss you my longtime friend.
I will always remember his kind and loving heart. Rest in peace Gary, you will be deeply missed.
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. The obituary is a beautiful tribute for your brother. God bless you and your whole family as you grieve his loss and remember his life.
I remember Gary from High School in Williston he was even one of the first boys I dated when I moved back to Williston in 67 I thought he was such a nice boy. Lost track of him but my brother in law Noops was very close to him. So sorry for your loss just think of him as an angel watching out for you 🙏
Gary was such a kind and caring man. He always had a smile for everyone. My deepest sympathy for your loss.
We make many friends during our lifetime. Some shine brighter than others. Gary was one of the bright ones !!!
Sorry for your loss. We will keep you and your family in our
prayers. Gary and Debbie were our friends from Barnesville, Mn.
Gary was a kind gentle soul and always had a warm greeting and a smile for everyone. He will be missed.
I moved out of the Century neighborhood last August after my husband passed away. We would stop and visit when he was outside and we were riding our 3 wheel bikes. Gary also sold me some furniture for my new place and he was so easy to do business with. Sorry to hear of his passing. God’s peace and comfort to his family.
I enjoyed the many conversations I had with Gary at church…he will definitely be missed!!
He was a beautiful person and will be missed.
Bowled a lot of games with gary in our early years prayers for all his family 👪 🙏
The Williston High School Class of 1968 extends our codolances to Gary’s family. He was a great classmate and friend. He will be missed. Rest in Peace.
He was always so kind.
Gary will be missed by his family and long time friends. He was one of my good friends in high school. i was able to reconnect with him at our class 50th reunion. We will pray for him and his family.
I live next door to Gary but didn’t know him well as he was sick when I moved in. We did have a few games of “I Blew It” dice though!! He was a quick learner and soon brought his friend Lloyd into the game with us which made it all the more fun!! I miss you Gary!!
My deepest sympathy to all on Gary’s passing. He was one of my favorite customers. His smile and great sense of humor was memorable. God’s Grace, Peace and Mercies to all of you.