Gary Kriz, 86, of Sisseton, SD, passed away suddenly at Tekakwitha Living Center on February 24, 2025. His life reflected a commitment to hard work and a deep love for the land he called home. Born in Sisseton on January 14, 1939, to Art and Marie Kriz, Gary graduated from Sisseton High School and married Linda Johnston in Sisseton, SD, on June 15, 1963. He was a farmer and rancher. He also owned GJ Kriz Construction, leaving a lasting legacy in many road construction and underground utility projects in the area. Additionally, Gary served as a field representative for the U.S. Census Bureau for over 20 years.

An avid outdoor lover, Gary found joy in hunting and fishing. He enjoyed watching the geese return each year to the lake he built on his farm. He also enjoyed playing cards and dice games with friends at D&D/Billy's Café, and also loved listening to country, gospel, and polka music.

Gary's life was rich with experiences, deeply connected to his roots, and marked by an appreciation for life's simple joys. His legacy endures in the land he loved, the family he treasured, and the countless lives he touched.

He is survived by his wife, Linda; his sons, John Kriz and Jason Kriz, both of Sisseton, SD; and his daughter, Vicki (Wade) Fenske of Rochester, MN; two sisters, Gayle Kriz of Claire City, SD, and Corliss (Gary) Bucklin of Thief River Falls, MN and three brothers, Don (Geraldine) Kriz of Claire City, SD, Dale (Teri) Kriz of Phoenix, AZ, and Randy (LaDonna) Kriz of Claire City, SD; sister-in-law, Dianna Kriz of Aberdeen, SD.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Larry Kriz.

A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.