Elmer Gangl

Elmer E. Gangl, age 96 of Melrose, passed away on Saturday, October 21, 2023 at the CentraCare Hospital in Sauk Centre, Minnesota.

A private graveside service will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Grey Eagle with military honors by the Melrose Veterans Honor Guard. A Celebration of Life will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Thursday, October 26 at the Sauk Centre American Legion.

Elmer Ervin Gangl was born July 5, 1927 in Millwood Township, Stearns County, Minnesota to Michael and Hilda (Eiynck) Gangl. He served in the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II and was honorably discharged in July of 1947. He was united in marriage to Valeria Herzog on September 1, 1955 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in St. Rosa. Elmer owned and operated Elmer’s Bar in St. Rosa. After retirement, Elmer and Valeria moved to Big Birch Lake. Valeria passed away in 1995 and later, Elmer found friendship with Loretta Pfeifer. They resided on Lake Sylvia together for 16 years until Loretta passed away.

He was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Grey Eagle and the Schanhaar-Otte VFW Post 7050. Elmer enjoyed fishing and spearing, traveling, deer hunting, and spending time with his family and friends.  

Survivors include his daughter, Joyce (Doug) Kaiser of Long Prairie; grandchildren, Kelsey Kaiser, Taylor (Amber) Kaiser, and Austin (Jessie) Kaiser; great-granddaughter, Charlie; sisters, Marti (Roger) Doetkott of Melrose, Ida Finken of Melrose, and Luella (Jim) Noren of St. Paul; and many relatives and friends.

Elmer was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Valeria Gangl; parents; son, William Gangl; special friend, Loretta Pfeifer; brothers and sisters, Sally, Dan, Don, Melvin, Issy, Hannah, Herman, Angie, Fron, Loretta, and Al.