Obituary for Gordon "Gordy" Woodard

Gordon “Gordy” Raymond Woodard, 86, passed away on May 23, 2026. Gordy was born on September 8, 1939, in Amsterdam, New York, to Gordon Raymond Woodard and Angie Karl. Following the passing of his father, he was raised in Hokah, Minnesota, by his mother and stepfather, Henry Maack.

Gordy married his true love, Kathleen Brunner, on January 6, 1962. Together they shared 64 years of love, partnership, and devotion, raising their children and facing life’s joys and challenges side by side.

Gordy and Kathy enjoyed many adventures together, especially cruises and Amtrak trips with John and Marlene Puent. Gordy especially loved visiting Disney World and seeing the elephants at the Milwaukee Zoo.

Gordy retired from Trane Company after 40 years of dedicated work. In retirement, he enjoyed gardening and took great pride in caring for his yard — dandelions beware! He also loved riding his three-wheeled bike, latch hooking, and creating the family’s beloved “Dad hats.” Many people have been kept warm during the cold winter months by the hats he lovingly made.

Gordy is survived by his wife, Kathy; daughter, Laurie Arzaga (Mike), Doug (Lisa) Woodard, Mary (Kevin) Domack, and Karen Duncanson (Jeff); his grandchildren, Jared Arzaga, Rachel (Matt) Bennett, Samantha Varble, Kali Lewis, Malia Potter (Kenny), Sasha (Chase) West, Jada (Josh), Nick (Ciarra), and Gracie Duncanson; and many great-grandchildren. We cannot forget their little dog, Hazel, who always kept him moving whenever he was ready to relax.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his parents-in-law, Alex and Viola Brunner; his son, Scott; his daughter, Susan; and his sister-in-law, Janet Fitzpatrick.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 29, 2026, at Mary, Mother of the Church Parish. Father Brian Konopa will celebrate the Mass. A luncheon will be served following the Mass.

Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery in Brownsville, Minn. A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m., until the time of Mass, Friday, at the church.

Online condolences may be offered to Gordy's family at this site.