Gary Armstrong, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025, at the age of 84. He was surrounded by care and comfort at Lexington Landing in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Born on November 10, 1940, in Minneapolis, Gary grew up in Minnesota, where he developed a lifelong love for sports and remained an avid golfer into his 80s. He was a proud graduate of Wayzata High School and the University of Minnesota. A standout athlete, Gary was a four-sport letterman in high school, excelling in football, basketball, baseball, and track and field.

His competitive spirit, sense of teamwork, and determination on the field carried over into his professional life. Gary spent his career in the electronics distribution industry, beginning at Crabtree Distribution straight out of college. He later worked with Team Electronics in Denver, Hamilton Avnet in Minneapolis, and served as Vice President at Pioneer Standard, before concluding his career as General Manager at Bell Microproducts, from which he officially retired.

In retirement, Gary enjoyed reading, golfing, and traveling with Ginny. Above all, he found joy in supporting his grandchildren—rarely missing a game, concert, or event where he could cheer from the sidelines.

Throughout his life, Gary made his home in Wayzata, Arvada (Colorado), Spring Lake Park, and Shoreview, before spending his final years at Lexington Landing.

Family & Legacy

Gary’s life was a reflection of his deep love for family. He was preceded in death by his cherished wife of 65 years, Ginny Armstrong. He is survived by his loving children: Allison Knostman (Wes) of Houston, Texas; Becky Borene (John) of Blaine; Kate Carlson (Scott) of Eden Prairie; and Brian Armstrong (Tina) of Blaine.:

He was a proud grandfather to eleven grandchildren—Jacob and Max Knostman; Rachel Hsiao and Emily Ylvisaker; Natalie Borene; Zack and Ryan Armstrong; Matthew Carlson, Sarah Karl, Abby Resch, and Jack Armstrong—and a doting great-grandfather to Kaiser, Ford, Miles, and Auggie.

Gary is also survived by his siblings, Bruce Armstrong and Nancy Nordeen, and his sister-in-law, Kathy Armstrong. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Rachel Armstrong, and his brother, Randy Armstrong.

With Gratitude

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Presbyterian Homes, especially the staff at Lexington Landing, for their compassionate care of both Gary and Ginny.

Celebrating a Life Well Lived

A private interment will be held at Union Cemetery in Long Lake, MN, on October 4th, honoring both Gary and Ginny. An informal memorial gathering will follow at Kip’s Irish Pub & Restaurant (9970 Wayzata Blvd, St. Louis Park, MN 55426) from noon to 2pm.