Gary Bernard Parnow
January 12, 1954 – August 22, 2025
Gary Bernard Parnow passed away peacefully on Friday, August 22, at Methodist Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born in La Crosse, Wisconsin, Gary was the beloved son of Bernhard “Bernie” Parnow and Marcelline “Marce” Parnow. In the early 1960s, the family moved to Rochester, Minnesota, where Bernie founded Southern Minnesota Auto Supply.
Gary graduated from John Marshall High School in 1972 and went on to study Auto Body Repair at Winona Vo-Tech. He dedicated his career to the craft, working at several body shops in Rochester before running his own shop for 13 years. He retired in 2021 from Rossi Auto Body.
Gary’s love for softball led him to Nancy, the love of his life, with whom he shared 42 wonderful years. Together, they enjoyed fishing trips to Lake Kabetogama, their cherished annual tradition. Gary also had a passion for motorsports, participating in demolition derbies and enduro races at county fairs. He was an avid motocross fan and spent countless weekends supporting his son Travis at races across the region. He also enjoyed seeing his grandson Riley play football through the years and at college.
Gary is survived by his devoted wife Nancy (Walker) Parnow; son Travis (Megan) Parnow and granddaughter Lennon of Corona, CA; stepdaughter Teresa Schreader and grandson Riley of Rochester, MN; and sister Bonnie (Gary) Patzer of Green Valley, AZ.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernie and Marce Parnow.
A celebration of Gary’s life will be held on Saturday, September 6th, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Rochester Cremation Services.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests words of encouragement via cards and monetary contributions. Although they were able to manage most of Gary’s medical expenses during his battle with cancer, they are now seeking support to help cover funeral costs and ongoing medical care for Nancy. Contributions can be made through the GoFundMe page set up in Gary’s memory:
👉 https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-gary-parnows-memorial-and-nancys-care
The Parnow’s want to thank everyone for all the kindness, prayers, and support they have already received. It means more than words can say.
Nancy and family- Bob and I are so sorry for your loss. Peace and blessings to you all.Take care of each other. Bob and Jeanne
My condolences to the family. I grew up with Gary and spent my early teens with him getting into a little mischief as kids did in the 60s. Old memories;we talked about recently.. God bless.
Travis & Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of loss and will continue to be with you. May God be near you all during this difficult time. With Love, Chris & Melissa Morton
Nancy and family, please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss and our best wishes for Nancy’s recovery.
I worked with Gary at Rossi’s Autobody for a couple of years. He was a very good bodyman and a great guy. So sorry to hear of his passing.