Gary Edward Dietz

Passed away Saturday December 29, 2022 at home. Gary was born February 28, 1952 in Cornwell on Hudson, New York the son of Edward and Alice (Cavanaugh) Dietz.  Gary graduated from Cornwall Central High School and received his Bachelor of Arts degree from SUNY – New Paltz in 1975.  Gary served his career as a lay professional in the Episcopal Church, specializing in Youth Ministry, specifically with teenagers.  Beginning in 1975 with seven churches on Staten Island, NY, then sixty churches in the Hudson River valley, he worked connecting teenagers with each other and adults volunteers, building their faith and church communities.  He orchestrated mission projects and youth events.  He trained adults to do the same, and had a gift that made each person he was with feel like the most important person in the room.  In 1983 Gary was recruited by St. Stephens Episcopal church in Edina, MN where he built a youth program for 6-12th grade students that spanned 31 years.  He met his wife, Marjory there and they were married there in 1988. During his career Gary lead groups to do mission projects locally, nationally and internationally.  He loved exposing teenagers to a way of life different from their own - not only their homes, but their culture and cuisine.  Gary leaves his passion for food, wine and hospitality with all who’ve ever known him.  In addition to parish ministry, Gary initiated a TEC (Teens Encounter Christ) interdenominational semi-annual retreat.  TEC was run by teenagers for teenagers, involving up to 200 of them and 50 adult volunteers, more than half of who were formerly in Gary’s youth program.  Upon retirement, he and Marjory moved to Kalamazoo MI, and he served as a Director on his condominium board. Together they enjoyed biking, hiking, and exploring the area. They also enjoyed many trips to new wine regions and upon return, sharing those hospitality skills with friends, family and neighbors. He was united in marriage to Marjory Allen on June 4, 1988 in Edina Minnesota.  Surviving are a brother, Wayne (Elizabeth) Dietz and Brother-in-Law David (Rhonda) Allen; nephews Mathew and Tyler (Emily) Allen; niece Jennifer (Kyle) Middaugh; and several great nieces &nephews. Contributions may be made to St. Stephen’s Church in Edina MN or to Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes.  www.redmondfuneralhomes.net