Gary Dean Rotz

Gary Dean Rotz, 67, of Clitherall, Minnesota passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 in Anoka, Minnesota. Born on October 19, 1958 in Otter Tail County, Gary was a graduate of Parkers Prairie High School. A man of the land, he spent his life working outdoors as a landscaper, arborist, and hay producer, and took great pride in tending to his family’s cattle farm.

Gary was a beloved father, a proud grandfather, and a steadfast friend. Known for his quiet strength and unwavering self-reliance, he was often described as a "lone wolf" who lived life on his own terms. He held firm to his convictions and possessed a tireless work ethic to match. An outdoorsman at heart, Gary found his greatest peace while hunting, favoring the stillness of nature and the solitude of the woods. He was a man of simple pleasures, rarely turning down the chance to end a hard day's work with a cold Budweiser in his hand.

Gary is survived by his daughter, Shannon Selix (Rotz); his five granddaughters, Jocelynn Haase, and Marissa, Aubree, Allizah, and Julianna Selix; his half-sister, Lynette Christensen; and many cousins. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Bernice (Christensen) and Donald Rotz; his step-mother, Iris Rotz; his grandparents, Anton and Dora Rotz; and multiple aunts and uncles.

Gary and his father, Donald, will be laid to rest at Inspiration Peak Cemetery. A private monument installation and a celebration of life at the farm will take place later this summer. Friends and family are asked to contact Shannon Selix at [email protected] to share their relationship to them and receive notification of final details. In lieu of flowers, donations to assist with final expenses are appreciated and can be coordinated via email.