Robert D. Gasner, 88, of Ellendale, died Wednesday, February 20, 2019 at New Richland Care Center.
He was born November 26, 1930 in Deerfield Township the son of Christ and Mabel (Dartt) Gasner. Robert graduated from Owatonna High School in 1949. He worked on the family farm after graduation and then served in the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1953 where he was a Sergeant Tank Commander in the Korean War.
Robert met Christena at the Owatonna Roller Rink as they both were avid skaters. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Christena Olson, on June 27, 1954 at the Community Lutheran Church in Geneva; sharing 64 1/2 years together. Robert worked at Jostens in Owatonna for 40 years in the tool and die department while also operating a dairy farm near Ellendale.
Robert enjoyed drawing, reading, and the outdoors. His most enjoyable moments were the times he spent with his grandchildren. They were his pride and joy and formed a special bond that will live on eternally in their hearts.
Robert is survived by his beloved wife, Christena; children, David Gasner of Hugo, Sharon (Donnie) Ramaker of Ellendale; grandchildren, Greg (Brittanny) Ramaker, Geoff Ramaker, Gretchen Ramaker, Paul (Kiya ) Gasner, Matthew Gasner, Nicole Gasner; great grandchildren, Carsyn, Chayton, Elan Gasner; siblings, Duane (Dessie) Gasner of Owatonna, Shirley Burdick of Waseca, Carol Karsten of Medford and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Margaret Hartle, Dorothy Morgan, JoAnn Gasner at infancy; brothers, Leslie Gasner, Christ Gasner Jr., Russell Gasner, Vernon Gasner at infancy.
A sincere thank you to the New Richland Care Center as the staff and residents are also included as part of his family.
Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home on Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m. and on Thursday from 10 to 11 a.m. Funeral services will be held Thursday, February 28, 2019 at 11 a.m. at Michaelson Funeral Home with Pastor Kristen Venne officiating. Military honors will be provided by the Steele County Military Funeral Unit. Interment will be in the Geneva Cemetery in Geneva.