Gary D. Sticha, 75, of Owatonna, died Monday, September 11, 2017 at Homestead Hospice House after a courageous battle with cancer. Gary was born September 2, 1942 in Eagle Bend, Minnesota the son of William and Lila (Farrell) Sticha. The family moved in and around southern Minnesota. Gary attended school at Medford High School and graduated from Owatonna High School in 1960. He continued his education to pursue his passion of flying and earned his pilots license along with owning his own plane. Gary served in the United States Army Reserves and was honorably discharged in 1972. He married Jane Mitchell on July 19, 1973 in Sioux Falls, SD. Gary worked as a master jeweler for Jostens and in 1974, they moved to California where he worked for Winston Tire. They returned to Owatonna in 1991. Gary served as President and CEO of Black Forest Limited in Owatonna where he was instrumental in the growth and development of the company. In addition to his passion for flying, he built and collected hot rods along with attending countless car shows throughout the country. He was a member of Primers Car Club and enjoyed the weekly breakfasts and evening dinner cruises. Gary also enjoyed music of the 60's and lead bands with his singing and guitar playing. While residing in California, he ventured in dirt biking and boating with his daughter, Jayme. He is survived by his special son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren, Jerry (Brooke) Sunde and Minka and Sawyer; brother, John Sticha of Owatonna; sister, Renee Gillespie of Owatonna; sisters-in-law, Judy Kubiatowicz of Plymouth, MN and Susan Williams of Rancho Cucamonga, CA; nieces and nephews, John J.P. (Martine) Sticha, Andrew (Jamie) Sticha, Erin (Justin Ohnstad) Gillespie, Katie Gillespie, and Ryan Gillespie, Kyle (Deb) Lewis, Reed (Jacki) Lewis, Tony Kedziora; great nieces and nephews; many relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Jane; daughter, Jayme; brother Bruce; and infant sister, Barbara Jean. Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 20, 2017 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, September 20, 2017 at 11:00 AM at Michaelson Funeral Home in Owatonna. Interment will be in the Bohemian National Cemetery in Owatonna. Memorials are preferred to American Cancer Society or Multiple Sclerosis Society. Visitation: 09/20/2017 10:00 09/20/2017 11:00 Service: 09/20/2017 11:00