Obituary: Gary Mackrill

Gary Mackrill

Cathay, N.D.

Gary Brian Mackrill, age 69, of Cathay, N.D., passed away on September 13, 2023, in Fargo, N.D. with his wife, Linda, by his side.

Gary's visitation was Sunday, September 17, 2023 from 6-7 p.m. followed by a prayer service at 7 p.m., all at Evangelical Free Church, New Rockford. A funeral service was held Monday, September 18, 2023 at 11 a.m. at Evangelical Free Church, New Rockford, with Pastor Joe Greiner officiating. His burial was at the Lake View Cemetery, Cathay, N.D.

Congregational hymns were "Power in the Blood," "In The Garden," and "How Great Thou Art," with special music, "Daddy's Hands," all by Delaine Rademacher, and "On the Road Again," by Kerstin Allmaras.

Pallbearers were Jud Mackrill, Chris Charles, Gideon Mackrill, and Thomas Herron.

Gary was born in Washington, D.C., 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, Neb. 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, N.D. 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, S.C.; Melinda Mackrill of Cathay, N.D.; and Amanda Herron (Thomas), grandchildren Belle and Truman of Rock Port, Mo.

  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Jude's.

Arrangements by Evans Funeral Home.