Stanley “Stan” “Stachu” J. Gaidis

Age 97, of Duluth, died Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at Heritage Haven Assisted Living. Stan was born on February 28, 1926 in Duluth, MN to Joseph and Tekla Gaidis. He attended Denfeld High School. He served in the Navy during World War II on the USS Boston in the Pacific Theater. He retired in 1986 from Zinsmaster Baking Company after 42 years. He married Lorraine Kessler in 1949 and they were married 57 years. Stan was a charter member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church, where he was an usher and member of the Knights of Columbus. He was a member of the American Legion, Moose and VFW. He played hockey (his favorite sport), fast pitch softball, ice boated, and just about any sport there is. Growing up in West Duluth he was proud to be a member of The Raleigh Street Gang, The Shack Club, Bayfront Boys Club, and the 39th St. Gang. He always cheered for his beloved MN Twins Baseball team, MN Vikings Football, and The Wild Hockey teams.

Stan and Lorraine enjoyed many years traveling and camping in their RV. In 1977 they revived the old family acreage in Wisconsin, and built a mini chalet. Their gardens were amazing and Stan was known as “The Berry Man”, around the Lake Nebagamon area for his many raspberry bushes and sales. Stan and his wife loved to go to the casino and would periodically hit the casino circuit for some fun and entertainment.

He was a kind, wonderful man with his quick wit and so many stories. He was a loyal friend and loved his family and his God.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lorraine; sisters, Josephine and Regina Gaidis and Gertrude Van Nurden; brother, Sal Gaidis.

Stan is survived by two sons, Michael (Mary) of Duluth and Kent (Tasha) Gaidis of Proctor; four grandchildren, Shannon (Travis) Schwartz, Stephanie (Christopher) West, Luke Gaidis and Lacy Gaidis; three great grandchildren, Olivia and Wyatt West, and Mallorie Schwartz.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00am at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, 2410 Morris Thomas Rd., Duluth, MN on Monday, September 25, 2023 with a Visitation beginning at 9:00am. A private family burial at the Polish Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Lawrence Catholic Church or Veterans Services of your choice.