Needham, Gary L. age 83, of Burnsville, Minnesota. Wonderful husband, father, grandfather (Papa), and friend passed away, peacefully, at his home, surrounded by loving family, on July 22 nd , 2025. Preceded in death by his parents Warren and Bernice Needham. Gary was born in 1942 in Dixon Illinois and graduated from Dixon High School. After enlisting in the U.S. Navy and marrying his wife, Martie, he served on multiple
submarines for 6 years. During which time, his son's Greg and Jeff were born at 2 separate Naval bases. He then moved his family to Minnesota where he worked for Honeywell and then 3M. Gary retired after 32 years as an engineer at 3M where he traveled the world training and troubleshooting technical systems at 3M plants in multiple countries. A teacher at heart, he always took the time to educate others and pass his wealth of knowledge on to those he trained.

Gary's greatest joy was spending time with family. Especially his grandkids and his dog, Toby. Celebrating birthdays, holidays, and trips to the North Shore, he and Martie made the most of their time with those they loved. Sharing old memories and creating new ones sprinkled with Gary's quick wit and sense of humor that always made us smile. And oh, how we loved his smile! Infectious, joyful, and lighting up every room. As a volunteer coach and biggest fan of his two sons' athletic teams and multi-sport competitions he never missed a game or a match and always cheered his boys on. We wanted to win for him as much as for ourselves. He celebrated with us when we won and consoled us when we lost. Teaching us to act with class and respect regardless of the outcome. Lessons that have stuck with us for life. He always cared more about others and would rather give than receive. His signature move was to make others laugh and lighten the mood with a joke or a funny comment to
put us all at ease whenever there was tension or a high emotional moment. That was his gift. He knew just what to say and when to say it and always to make us all feel better. We will miss those moments with him but will feel him there when we need it most. Knowing he is still watching over us.
Survived by his loving wife, Martie of 61 years; sons Greg (Carleen), Jeff (Lisa); grandchildren, Julia, and Alex; brother David and sister Diane, and many other friends and relatives. His spirit lives on with all who loved and knew him. Funeral Services Monday August 4 th Prince of Peace Lutheran Church 13801 Fairview Dr. Burnsville, MN 55337. Visitation 10AM, Services 11AM, Lunch 12noon,

Burial 1:30PM Lebanon Cemetery 5450 150 th St. W. Apple Valley, MN 55124. In lieu of flowers and to honor Gary's service, please donate to Disabled American Veterans of Minnesota (DAVMN) at https://davmn.org/how-to-support-us/.