Gary Thomas Collette

Gary Thomas Collette, age 67, of Shakopee, Minnesota, and formerly of Austin passed away on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis. Gary was born on June 22, 1957, in Austin, Minnesota, to Elvy and Germaine (Kramer) Collette. He graduated from Austin High School. Gary was a lumper for many years alongside his brother-in-law, Mike Rasmussen. It was within those miles that he met his lifelong friend and roommate, Donald “Ski” Jablonski, with whom he shared many adventures. Gary’s travels led him to the warm California sun where he lived for several years. He loved the ocean and watching the beautiful sunsets. He was an avid Minnesota sports fan and loved watching the Vikings, Timberwolves, and Gophers. Most of all, we will remember Gary for his great laugh and sense of humor. He was the life of the party and enjoyed having beers with his many lifelong friends. Gary was such a positive man, and we will love and miss him forever.

Gary is survived by his friend and roommate, Ski Jablonski; sisters, Linda Collette, Trish (Roger Hoium) Rasmussen, and Karen Hatfield; brother-in-law, Mike (Brenda) Rasmussen; nieces and nephews, Jeff (Kim) Rasmussen, Gina (Mark) Mason, Troy Rasmussen, Kirk (Dawn) Luns, Phil (Erin) Luns, and Heather (Stephan Wagoner) Hatfield; and many great and great-great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elvy and Germaine; brother, John Collette; brother-in-law and great friend, Mark Hatfield; and good friends, Duane Tabor and Al Reed.

A Celebration of Life for Gary will be held from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025, at Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home in Austin, Minnesota. A reception will follow at the Veterans Pavilion, 104 9th Place SW., Austin, MN 55912. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the family. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes are assisting the family with arrangements.