Thief River Falls (trfnews.i234.me) — Gary Srnsky, of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, died on Dec. 11, 2025. He was 69. His family said he died near Rice, Minnesota, after an automobile crash.
Visitation details
A visitation honoring Srnsky is scheduled from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025.
It will be held at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls.
Early life and military service
Gary Ray Srnsky was born Sept. 7, 1956, at St. Michael’s Hospital in Sauk Centre, Minnesota.
His parents were Jimmy and Patricia (Walker) Srnsky.
He was baptized into the Lutheran faith on Aug. 31, 1957, at Zion Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls.
Srnsky attended school through the 10th grade.
He later joined the U.S. Army on June 28, 1974.
He was honorably discharged on March 10, 1975.
More information on Army service records is available through the National Archives.
Work and family
After the military, Srnsky worked as a truck driver for many years.
He drove for Hartz Truck Line and other companies, according to his family.
On June 14, 1975, he married Linda Reierson.
He became a father to Scott.
Three more children were later born: Jenny, James, and Patty.
He also spent many years with Kathy Sorrels, his family said.
Hobbies and interests
Srnsky enjoyed old cars and car shows.
He liked rodeos, camping, and riding a four-wheeler.
He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and playing cards.
His family said he loved time with his grandchildren most.
They said he often attended their events and activities.
Survivors
Srnsky is survived by his children Scott Srnsky, James (Jennifer) Srnsky, Patty (James) Sheldon, and Elizabeth Srnsky.
He is also survived by grandchildren Alex Nelson, Dylan Nelson, Caleb (Nikki) Srnsky, Tanisha (Austin) Srnsky, Kathryn Srnsky, Ray Srnsky, Quincy, Troy, and Aria Moody.
He is survived by his great-grandchild, Everleigh Tharaldson.
Other survivors include his mother, Patricia Srnsky, and brother Michael Srnsky.
Step-grandchildren include Tristan, Presley, Peyton, Tahlen, and Coy.
Those who died before him
He was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Jenny Srnsky.
He was also preceded in death by his father, Jim Srnsky.
His grandparents, Frank and Ida Srnsky, and Edward and Anna Walker, also died before him.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.