Gordon Duane Aaker

Gordon (Gordy) Duane Aaker, age 84, of Garretson, South Dakota, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025, at Avera Hospital. Visitation will be from 5-7:00 PM Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at the Minnehaha Funeral Home, Garretson. A graveside service will begin at 10:00 AM Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Palisade Lutheran Church Cemetery, rural Garretson, Rock County, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers and plants, the family invites you to honor Gordy’s memory by sharing a story, enjoying a morning coffee with friends, or visiting Devils Gulch to hear the legend he so loved to tell.

Gordy was born in the morning hours in Beaver Creek, Minnesota, where he grew up on the family farm helping his father with chores and spending time with his three brothers. He was the youngest son of Irwin and Milla (Lowe) Aaker, and grew up alongside his brothers Arthur, Lawrence, and Roger.

At the age of five, Gordy contracted polio — a challenge that would have defined a lesser spirit. But true to his nature, he never let it stop him. With quiet resilience and determination, he went on to live a full and active life, embracing every opportunity to work hard, connect with others, and make a difference.

From a young age, Gordy was especially close to his mother, Milla, who taught him how to cook and garden — skills that would become lifelong passions. He was known for his signature deviled eggs and delicate krumkake, both of which he loved to share generously with friends, family, and neighbors. Whether in the kitchen, the garden, or around the table, Gordy brought people together with kindness, warmth, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of life. A childhood highlight for Gordy was his love for his horse, Diamond — a gift from his brother Roger. That love for animals and storytelling stayed with him throughout his life.

Gordy dedicated 20 years of service as a janitor at the Garretson school, where he touched the lives of countless students and staff with his steady presence and hard work. After retiring from the school, he continued his service to the community by working for the City of Garretson at Devils Gulch. There, Gordy became a local legend himself, sharing the story of Jesse James with visitors from all over the country for another 20 years.

In his retirement, Gordy found deep joy in the company of Autumn and Doug Gaspar, who became family to him. For Autumn, Gordy was her everything. Countless mornings were spent eating donuts, sitting at Devil's Gulch with her, sharing his stories, and being her best friend. Their bond was one of unconditional love, laughter, and quiet understanding — a connection that brought warmth and meaning to Gordy’s later years. He also shared countless good times with his beloved “garage crew,” a close-knit group of friends who were always there for him. Gordy was also a proud member of the Palisades breakfast club, where he could be found most mornings enjoying coffee, conversation, and connection.

Gordy will be remembered for his storytelling, his generous spirit, and the way he made everyone feel welcome — often with a plate of home-cooked food in hand. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched with kindness, humor, and quiet wisdom.

Gordy is survived by his good friends, Autumn and Doug Gaspar, and Amanda Foster, and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brothers, Arthur, Lawrence, and Roger.