Light of Hope for Hospice Care

Remembering Gary Wolff, the man who saw the best in everyone.​

Last year, you helped us bring comfort and peace to patients and families facing life’s greatest challenges. Your generosity shines as a beacon of hope in our community, and we are deeply grateful.

This year, as we reflect on the profound impact of CHI St. Joseph’s Health Hospice Care, we are honored to share the story of Gary Wolff. Gary was more than just a beloved community member; he was a testament to the power of human connection, a man who truly saw the best in everyone.

If you were lucky enough to know Gary, you know what we mean. He was the teacher who made his classroom a sanctuary, the coach who inspired confidence, and the neighbor who always offered encouragement. To his devoted wife Marsha of 54 years, his children Eric and Sarah, and his cherished grandchildren Macy, Attly, Elin, and August – he was the bedrock of their lives, always reminding them of their worth. Gary loved coaching, fishing, hunting, and creating art through painting, pottery, and carving decoys. He was a natural caretaker and cheerleader, endlessly encouraging his wife and family in every step of their lives. Gary was a light; outgoing, energized by people, and truly saw the best in everyone he met.

“Everyone has something to contribute.” This was Gary’s simple, yet profound philosophy. From the classroom to the playing field, he ensured every student and athlete knew they mattered, fostering a belief in themselves that lasted long after they left his side. He believed in people, cheered for the underdog, and never met a stranger – only future friends.

Gary built a legacy not of wealth or accolades, but of relationships, encouragement, and a lifetime filled with laughter and stories. He touched countless lives, whether he was teaching, coaching, throwing pottery, carving decoys, or simply making someone feel like they belonged.

Gary’s vibrant spirit faced its greatest challenge when he was diagnosed with cancer on Thanksgiving in 2024. Though he fought with strength and optimism, by early 2025, after a final chemotherapy appointment revealed the treatment was no longer effective, he and his family made the difficult decision to discontinue further treatment. The very next day, they called hospice to help. Gary passed away peacefully on February 2, 2025 with his family by his side.

It was in these moments, when comfort, dignity, and unwavering support were most needed, that CHI St. Joseph’s Health Hospice Care team stepped in. As Marsha shared, “hospice just took a big weight off of her,” bringing ease and the comfort of knowing Gary was being taken care of with compassion and kindness. The last crucial week before Gary passed, our hospice staff became truly invaluable. They not only provided expert physical care but also compassionately prepared the family for what was to come, helping them recognize the signs of Gary’s transition. They took care of everything, emphasizing comfort and profound support. They truly acted as “angels” who were always “only a phone call away. Marsha was able to gather all the family together as Gary transitioned, thanks to the insights and support provided by the hospice team.

Just as Gary saw the inherent worth in every individual, Hospice Care embodies that same belief. We strive to create an environment where every patient feels valued and every family finds solace, allowing them to focus on what matters most: spending precious time together, free from pain and fear.

Gary Wolff & Family

Community tree lighting

Join us as we gather to celebrate and remember our loved ones during the Heartland Lakes Community Tree Lighting ceremony on Friday, November 28, 2025. The festive evening will kick off at 6:00 PM in downtown Park Rapids. Can’t make it in person? You can also join us virtually on the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook page or at parkrapids.com.

We also invite you to honor or remember a loved one this holiday season by placing an unbreakable ornament on our memory tree, located in Pioneer Park on Main Street.

Light of Hope

This holiday season, honor your friends and loved ones by supporting CHI St. Joseph’s Health Hospice Care.

With your donation of $25 or more, you directly provide crucial, transformational care, supporting patients and families through their journey, both now and for years to come. Thank you for shining your light with others.

To learn more or connect with us, please call CHI St. Joseph’s Health Hospice Care at 218-732-4552.