Gary L. Sartori, 78, of Aurora, passed away peacefully on January 27th surrounded by loved ones. Born in Fort Francis Ontario, he graduated from Buhl High School before proudly enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. He served with distinction completing two tours in Vietnam in the Khe Sanh region, earning the Purple Heart, the Navy Achievement Medal, and two Presidential unit citations for his bravery and sacrifice.

After returning home, Gary settled in Palo and worked as a maintenance mechanic at the Eveleth Taconite Mine for 37 years where his skill and dedication were well-known. Along with the mine work, he built a farm, pouring his heart into the land and creating a legacy of hard work and resilience. Known for his generous spirit, and ability to solve most of the world's problems on the back of an envelope, Gary was always ready to lend a hand to a neighbor or friend in need and could fix just about anything with his mechanically inclined mind.

Gary is survived by his two younger sisters, Cindy Dodge (Skip), Christy Baasi; his children, Lori Sartori (Chad), Jane Sartori, Randy Sartori (Kari), Jeff Sartori (Megan), Kristy Koch (Don), and Jamie Sartori. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren (shout out to Sam Koch (Megan) and great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents Lino & Dorothy Sartori, brother Joseph Sartori, sister Peggy Mattila, brother-in-law Calvin Baasi, his great-grandson Ashton Gary Koch, and the love of his life, Susie Sartori. Knowing he can be with her again in Heaven brings his family comfort during this difficult time.

His memory lives on in the countless lives he touched and with his quiet courage and unwavering support. The family is holding a private celebration of Gary's life. If you'd like to donate in Gary's name, his favorite causes were Wounded Warriors Project (woundedwarriorproject.org) and St. Joseph's Indian School (stjo.org).