Gerhard “Gary” Oscar Theodore Meidt, an influential educator, legendary football coach, gifted musician, and beloved family man, passed away peacefully at his home in Waukee, Iowa, on Friday, June 13, 2025, at the age of 88.
A man whose life was defined by passion, discipline, and faith, Gary left behind a legacy that continues to echo across generations.
Born on September 27, 1936, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, Gary faced early tragedy with the passing of his mother when he was just seven years old.
He was raised alongside his older siblings, Beth and Joseph, and even in childhood, his love for sports and music stood out.
His lifelong dedication to trumpet performance would shape his career and personal joy for decades.
Gary majored in Music (Trumpet Performance) and minored in Mathematics at the University of North Dakota, where he also joined the Army ROTC.
Gary Meidt’s Coaching Career Began In Rothsay
After completing active duty, Gary began a remarkable career in education and coaching, accepting a position in Rothsay, Minnesota.
There, he was a math teacher, band director, football coach, and eventually principal.
Under his leadership, Rothsay flourished academically, musically, and athletically.
In 1972, he led the football team to win the first-ever 9-man State Championship, a crowning achievement of the school’s “golden era.”
His excellence was formally recognized in 1974 with the prestigious Sioux Award, and he went on to earn a Master’s degree from Moorhead State and a Specialist’s degree from NDSU.
Gary Meidt Had A Coaching Dynasty In Minneota
In 1981, Gary moved to Minneota, MN, where he elevated the school district to new heights.
Over the course of 13 legendary years, Gary once again excelled as a Superintendent, music director, community education leader, and football coach.
From 1985 to 1993, his football teams advanced to the state playoffs seven times, winning three consecutive Prep Bowl titles (1986–1988) and setting a state record of 48 consecutive wins.
His football offenses shattered records at both the state and national levels, and his teams amassed 63 wins between 1985 and 1989, the best in Minnesota during that era.
His coaching mastery earned him national recognition, and in 1999, Gary was inducted into the Minnesota Football Coaches Hall of Fame.
He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves in 1989, adding another distinguished title to his already extraordinary life.
Though officially retiring in 1994, Gary never truly stopped mentoring.
He coached football at Big Lake, Bethel University, and finally St. Olaf College, retiring in 2008 after 46 impactful years on the field.
He remained active in the Northfield community, directing the Troubadours, playing in the Canon Valley Orchestra, and performing with the city band.
He was a cherished part of Bethel Lutheran Church and a founding member of the church’s beloved Bethel Quartet Plus One.
During winters in Texas, he poured his passion into the Rio Grande Valley Band, the Swing Street Dance Band, and service on his home association board.
Gary Meidt Lived A Life Of Faith, Being Dedicated To His Wife And Kids
Gary’s faith in Jesus Christ was the compass guiding his life, shaping him as a teacher, mentor, husband, and father.
He inspired hundreds to believe in themselves, whether on the football field or behind a music stand.
He was married to Karen Meidt for 65 loving years, and together they raised three exceptional children: Gregory, Melody, and Christopher.
Gary’s pride in his 11 grandchildren (including two sets of twins) and 15 great-grandchildren was boundless.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 27, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Bethel Lutheran Church, 1321 North Avenue, Northfield, MN 55057.
