Gary Haggerty, 68, of Winona, died peacefully at his home surrounded by family after a lengthy illness on Sunday, July 21, 2019. Gary was born February 12, 1951 to Kenneth and Mabel (Miller) Haggerty in Lake City, MN. Gary grew up the youngest of 9 on a farm outside of Rochester near Hammond. Growing up on a farm he learned the value of hard work. He graduated from John Marshall High School in 1969 before volunteering for the National Guard for 6 years. After high school he attended and graduated from RCC/Mayo School of Respiratory Care. In 1975 he accepted a Respiratory Therapist position at Community Memorial Hospital (Winona Health). He worked at CMH/Winona Health for forty years, and for Philipps Bus Service for over 15 years as well. In 1981 he met Patty Lucca while working at the hospital. The two of them found love and began their beautiful story. They were married on April 2, 1982 in Winona. He loved spending time with his family and instilled his work ethic in his children. Many weekends were spent outside with Dad doing various activities such as camping and fishing. In 1984, Gary created and directed "Camp We-No-Wheeze", a summer camp for asthmatic kids that brought family, friends and community together for over 20 years. He was a loyal friend, brother, son and husband. A patient, loving father. A gentle soul. His character, humor and good nature will leave a legacy behind far greater than any awards or recognition ever could.
He is survived by his loving wife, Patty; children, Patrick Haggerty, Benjamin (Andrea) Lucca and their children Vivian and Livia, Lindsey (Timothy) Przybylski; siblings, Arlene Roberson, Dora Lee (John) Springer, Joanne (Charles) Nord, Kenneth (Mary) Haggerty, Sharon (Russell) Billings, Dianne (Sidney) Anderson, Rita Tollefsrud. He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Marlys; brothers in-law, David Tollefsrud, Grant Larson, Don Roberson.
A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, July 26, 2019 at Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Winona. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m., Thursday, July 25, 2019 at Hoff Celebration of Life Center, Goodview and one hour prior to the service at church. Private family interment will happen at a later date. In Lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the Gift of Life House in Rochester or Team Vogel in Winona (www.teamvogelvscancer.org).