Gary Schrantz

life story

Gary Schrantz, 77, of Maple Grove, passed away on August 13, 2026, after a short battle with aggressive pancreatic cancer.

Gary, Papa, was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose greatest joy came from spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He will be remembered for the love he had for those closest to him.

Gary grew up in Sauk Centre, Minnesota. He graduated from Saint John's and the University of Minnesota with an MBT (Masters Business Taxation).

Gary went on to build a successful tax accounting practice, serving both small businesses and individuals. He took great pride in his work. Gary was still actively preparing tax returns for more than 100 individual clients. His many longtime clients were a testament not only to his expertise, but also to the trust and personal relationships he built throughout his career.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, JoAnn; his children, Jack (Kamila) and their children, John and Samuel; Jane (Bryan), and their children, Katelyn and Austin; and Julie (Justin) and their children, Emma and Charlie. He is also survived by his sister, Kathy.

Gary was preceded in death by his son, Pat; his parents, Bernard and Josephine ; his brother, Greg; and his sister, Barb.

Family was at the center of Gary's life. He treasured time spent with his grandchildren and took great pride in watching and supporting them. Papa always made time for rides, concerts, sporting events, recitals, and yearly traditions including Grandparents camp, showing his unwavering dedication to his family and creating lasting memories.

Gary also had a lifelong love of golf. He enjoyed the time spent on the course, the friendships and conversations that came with the game, and the simple pleasure of a good round and the frustration of a bad one.

Gary’s presence will be deeply missed, but the love, laughter, and memories he leaves behind will remain with his family and friends for years to come.

Gary’s family will gather privately to celebrate his life at a later date.