Gary Wilson, Park Volunteer
Gary Wilson dedicated his life to volunteering in North Minneapolis for 60 years. Here’s his story:
Gary Wilson was a resident of North and Northeast Minneapolis for most of his life with his wife and three children. He loved to coach kids and volunteered for 60 years coaching baseball, football, and basketball at Logan and Farview Park, Edison High School, and the VFW and American Legion. In 1976, Gary was instrumental in the construction of Farview Park’s recreation center and the addition of a gym in 1991. The gym was later dedicated and named after him.
Janet – his wife remembers: “Gary worked as a custodian at our church for 20 years. He liked the hours, 6am-3pm, so he had time to get to the park and coach. Along with coaching, he also bought and maintained all the uniforms. I helped wash and repair uniforms for a while, and worked the concession stand during basketball tournaments. The American Legion helped buy a bus, which the kids loved and called it Big Blue. Gary tried to make sure that every kid who wanted to play had transportation. After he retired in 2000, he spent most of his time at the park. He loved coaching kids, and being with them was really his life dream. Gary passed away in 2015.”
Gary’s service and dedication to coaching youth has been recognized nationally. He is the recipient of numerous awards including Kare 11’s making a difference award, the Martin Luther King service award from Minneapolis Park Board, Nike coach of the year award, and Mpls. St. Paul Magazine volunteer of the year. He also is in the Edison Sports Hall of Fame and Distinguished Alumni at Edison.
