Gary Richard Mandelin

Gary Mandelin passed away on February 1, 2026, at the age of 79. He was a man with a big presence and a wealth of stories—the kind of guy who lived life on his own terms, but whose greatest purpose and pride was always his family.

Born in 1946 to Ella and Elmer Mandelin, Gary spent four years in the United States Coast Guard (1965–1969). That time at sea stayed with him forever; he was an avid sailor who was always happiest when he was out on the water. He spent years immersed in sailboat racing, where he was known for being fiercely competitive. He lived for the thrill of the race and the drive to win, and through that shared intensity, he developed deep, lifelong friendships with his sailing buddies.

After his service, Gary spent over 20 years at Murphy Oil. He was a master at his trade, but he might have been even better at being the shop’s resident prankster. He was a straight talker, but usually, he was just trying to get a laugh out of you. You always knew where you stood with Gary, mostly because he wasn’t afraid to tell you.

Gary and Lisa met at the Duluth Rowing Club, a fitting start for a man who loved the water. They married in 1987 and were together for more than 40 years, building a life centered around their family. He was a proud father to Eric and Katie, and he absolutely doted on his granddaughter, Sophie.

If there was an opportunity for an adventure, Gary was the first one ready to go. Whether it was by car or by airplane, he’d always say, “My bags are packed.” Those family trips were among the many highlights of his life.

In retirement, Gary was never without a project. He spent countless hours building furniture, birdhouses, and even a playhouse and dollhouse for his family and friends to enjoy. As his interests evolved, he moved into new artistic endeavors, finding a talent for metalworking as well as acrylic and watercolor painting. He loved nothing more than sharing his latest creations with those around him, and he always found time for his lifelong passion: his antique car collection.

Gary is survived by his wife, Lisa; his children, Katie (Tim Houglum) and Eric (Jenna Black); and his granddaughter, Sophie. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Audrey Larson-Schram; his brother, Carl Mandelin; his sister-in-law, Carlisle Mandelin; and his brother-in-law, Mitch Larson (Janie Denis-Strutt).

He leaves behind his nieces and nephews—Laurie Edblom, Nancy Sande (Romney), Ruth Mandelin-Manseau (Scott Vesterstein), Kevin Halligan, Carla Bradley (Hugh), Sherri Mandelin, and Ken Mandelin Jr.—along with many great-nieces and great-nephews who all have an "Uncle Gary story" to tell. He is also survived by the family of Earl Schram.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Kenneth Mandelin; and his father-in-law, Harold (Wink) Larson.

Most of all, family was the love of his life.

A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, February 5th at 4:00 p.m. with a visitation beginnig at 3:00 p.m. in Dougherty Funeral Home, 600 E Second Street, Duluth, MN 55805. lieu of flowers please donate to your local food shelf.