Evans Funeral Home
"Compassionate Funeral Service"
Carrington and New Rockford, North Dakota
701.652.3003 or 701.947.2911
Secondary Number ~ 701.650.9937
Gary Mackrill
Gary Brian Mackrill, age 69, of Cathay, ND passed away on September 13, 2023, in Fargo, North Dakota with his wife, Linda, by his side. He was born in Washington, DC to Judson and Phyllis Mackrill. He grew up in Virginia, where he first became interested in beekeeping as a merit badge project for Boy Scouts, eventually becoming the president of the Virginia Beekeepers Association when he was just sixteen.
He attended the University of Nebraska, Kearney where he became a Nebraska State Bee Inspector. Gary then eventually became a commercial beekeeper. He started his business in Burwell, NE where he met and married the love of his life, Linda Kay (Dawe) Mackrill on June 14, 1980.
Together, they moved their growing family to Cathay, ND in the spring of 1981. This is where they raised their three children, Jud, Melinda, and Amanda.
Gary dedicated his life to beekeeping, finding joy in his work and the people he worked alongside. He deeply loved producing high-quality honey. Gary cared greatly for his beekeeping teams and operations in North Dakota, Texas, and California.
In addition to his beekeeping pursuits, Gary loved the outdoors, enjoying fishing and hunting. His loyal dogs were always by his side during these adventures, bringing him happiness and companionship. Gary had a special interest in collecting and studying antique military rifles, delving into their history and stories.
Gary is survived by his loving wife, Linda, with whom he shared 43 years of marriage, and their children: Judson Mackrill (Kimberly), grandchildren Gideon, Piper, Greer, and Simeon of Charleston, SC, Melinda Mackrill of Cathay, ND, and Amanda Herron (Thomas), grandchildren Belle and Truman of Rock Port, MO.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Jude’s.
Gary’s Visitation will be Sunday, September 17, 2023 from 6:00PM-7:00PM followed by a Prayer Service at 7:00PM all at Evangelical Free Church, New Rockford.
A Funeral Service will be held Monday, September 18, 2023 at 11:00AM at Evangelical Free Church, New Rockford.
His Burial will be at the Lake View Cemetery, Cathay, ND.
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Linda, God bless you. We all loved Gary. Please accept our heart felt condolences. Earl and Carol Hoffman, Bee Keepers.
Dadant & Sons Inc. wishes heartfelt sympathy for your loss.
He was a great customer and so nice to talk to.
So very sorry for Gary’s passing. Although we didn’t know him well, he was always fun to talk too. We followed you guys via Mandy’s family. God bless you and give you peace at this time.
I am so sorry for your loss
His pain is over. Can you imagine how wonderful that first breath in heaven!
Sending you love, hugs and many prayers
May God bring you and your family comfort, Linda, during this very difficult time. You will be in my prayers.
So many memories with you guys as our kids were growing up together in church and youth. I always loved to watch Gary interact with youngsters. Hugs and prayers for all of you.
Linda
I’m so saddened by Gary’s passing.
I have so many fond memories of us as kids. I remember the day Gary’s first bee hive arrived in the mail and when we opened it we were both attacked by some angry bees. Gary never stoped loving them and it led to an amazing life. I will miss him so much.
I am so sorry to hear of Gary’s passing. you and the family are in my thoughts and prayers Linda.
sorry to hear of his passing. He was a nice friendly guy. I always enjoyed visiting with him. Prayers and sympathy.
This one hurts. I wish I could be there in person but my brother Fred died on the same day in West Virginia. Gary would stop 4 or 5 times a year and we would have a half-hour talk. In addition, we would keep up to date through Melinda at Rosa’s where she and Rosemary had a weekly love fest. Mel, she truly loved you.
Linda and family, we will deeply miss Gary. Please accept prayers and condolences. He was a great thinker and a wonderful friend. He made the world around him, for bees and for people, a better place. His legacy will continue. – Slava Strogolov and Strong Microbials team.
I just heard of Gary’s passing today and I am very saddened to hear this. I have many memories of Gary over the years of working on his equipment over the years in sykeston. I will miss you Gary! And prayers to you Linda and all of Gary’s kids and family.