John Peter Gaardsmoe Jr.

John Peter Gaardsmoe Jr.

January 27 1934 - May 25 2012

John Peter Gaardsmoe Jr. (also known as Peter) of Surprise, Arizona and Glenwood, Minnesota died on Friday May 25th, 2012 in Arizona.

Peter was born on January 27th 1934 in Chicago, son of John Peter Gaardsmoe Sr. and Esther Virginia (Olson) Gaardsmoe. A PK (pastor's kid), he moved to Grand Forks when John Sr. accepted the call at United Lutheran Church in North Dakota. There Peter became active in youth groups like the Luther Club where he met his future wife, LylaMae (Appelgren) Gaardsmoe. They were married for 58 years. He also attended University of North Dakota in Grand Forks.

Peter began his 25 year career in hospital administration at St Michaels Hospital in Grand Forks. Within a few years he was part of the leadership team that consolidated two local hospitals into United Hospital. He managed multiple departments of the continuously expanding United Hospital and Medical Park, retiring as Vice President Support Services in March 1990.

On retirement, Peter and Lyla explored the United States in search of the perfect location to enjoy their interests. They settled on a cabin on Lake Amelia in Minnesota and a home in Sun City Grand in Arizona, appreciating the best seasons in each location.

Peter loved spending time with his family and grandchildren, golfing, traveling, volunteering and organizing home and yard. Peter's faith consistently guided and inspired his life. He was respected for his integrity and loved for his kind heart.

He is survived by his wife, LylaMae and children, Lynn, Karl (Julie), Christine (Alan) Plutowski, Daniel, and Steven (Myrna), eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers the family has designated the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at Barrow Foundation (https://donate.supportstjosephs.org/page.aspx?pid=439) for memorial contributions.

The Memorial will be held at Calvary Lutheran Church, Alexandria, MN on July 7th at 2pm with reception to follow.

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