Thief River Falls – Gerald Schuster, 78, of Thief River Falls, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 23, 2025, at his residence with his loving family by his side.
Gerald Alan Schuster was born March 3, 1947, in Thief River Falls, the son of Laurel “Bud” and Ardith (Larson) Schuster. He was baptized and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls. Gerry attended Knox Elementary School (go Tigers!) and graduated from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls with the Class of 1965.
In 1966, Gerry entered into service with the United States Army and was stationed at Schwabisch Hall, Germany. He achieved the rank of Specialist 4th Class and was honorably discharged in 1969.
Gerry returned to live in Thief River Falls where he went to work for the Soo Line Railroad as a brakeman and conductor, retiring after 30 years of service in 2000. In addition, he and Wanda owned and operated Wanda’s Flower and Gift Shop for seven years.
On June 2, 1973, Gerry was united in marriage to Wanda Nomeland Leskiw at Zion Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls. They made their home in Thief River Falls and to this union, a son, Jason was born, joining Wanda’s children, Rodney, Ronald and Lori.
Gerald and Wanda lived twenty years at their lake home. There they made dear friends that were so much a part of their lives. They attended Our Savior’s Lutheran Church at Federal Dam, MN, a small church with a loving congregation, that was a home to them, and wonderful friends were made there. The lake was at their front door and lots of time was spent fishing walleye. In 2023 they moved back to Thief River Falls to be closer to family.
He enjoyed morning coffee at Station 59, a game of cribbage with his buddies, attending Prowler sports events. “Papa” was the biggest fan at Olivia and Claire sporting events.
Gerry enjoyed boats and fishing with his favorite fishing partner, Wanda, also “the Larsons” who thought of him as #1 cousin. Gerry loved going to the hunting cabin with Jason, Bert, and Uncle Donnie. Gerry was the cook and fed the neighbors, the Anderson family, too.
His family was very important to him, and he thought they were a blessing. His grandchildren were the light of his life.
He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church and American Legion Post 117 in Thief River Falls.
Survivors include his loving wife of 52 years, Wanda; son, Jason (Mandy) Schuster; daughter, Lori Weisse all of Thief River Falls; grandchildren, Olivia, Claire, Ryan, Jeremy, Ryan and Joshua (Anastasia); great-grandchildren, Nicholas, Max, Jayden, Cole, Colton, Emery, and Willa; sister, Patricia (Del) Schob; and three nieces, and many relatives and friends.
Gerry is preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; baby brother, Roger; son-in-law, Bert Weisse; and stepsons; Rodney and Ronald.
Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., with the service to celebrate Gerald’s life at 11 a.m., on Friday, May 30, 2025, at Zion Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, with Rev. Kristin Ostercamp officiating.
The burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery in Thief River Falls. Military honors will be provided by American Legion Post 117, VFW Post 2793 and Minnesota Army National Guard Honor Guard.
Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com.
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