Neil Ganther

Neil Ganther, age 76 of Cottage Grove passed away September 24, 2021.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, October 10, 2021 from 2-5 pm at The American Legion, Post 98, 328 Broadway Ave., St. Paul Park.  Private interment will be held at a later date.

Neil was born September 13, 1945 in Eau Claire, Wisconsin to Robert and Lorraine Ganther.  His family moved during his final year of high school and graduated from Park High School in 1963.  He started working as an accounting clerk for the railroad before getting drafted into the US Army in 1965 and served in the 25th Infantry, Tropic Lightning.  He was stationed in Vietnam during his time in the military.  Following his honorable discharge, he returned to his position with the Burlington Northern Railroad.  Neil was united in marriage to Wendy Thompson on August 25, 1978 and lived in South St. Paul for 6 years until moving to Cottage Grove where they raised their family.

He was a collector of various things and an avid supporter of all kinds of Minnesota sports.  He enjoyed giving gifts and making people feel cared for and was often referred to as “The Big Guy”.  The most important part of his life was spending time with his family and letting them know how much he loved them.

He is survived by his wife Wendy; sons Brett (Andrea), Scott (JoJo), Matt; grandchildren Raeanna, Shayna, Jackson, Eva, Davin, Lillian and Loki; sister Jill (Neil) Kelly as well as nieces and nephews and countless friends.  He is preceded in death by his parents.