John Harry Gareis, age 75 of New Ulm died unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday, May 2, 2023.

A graveside service will take place at 1 pm on Friday, May 19, 2023, at the New Ulm City Cemetery Columbarium. Pastor Tim Smith will lead the prayer service, and full military honors will be provided by the New Ulm Area Comrades of Valor Honor Guard.

The Minnesota Valley Funeral Homes of New Ulm are assisting the family with arrangements at this time.

To leave an online condolence for his family, or to sign the guestbook, go to: mvfh.org

John is survived by his wife, Beverly Gareis of New Ulm; his daughter Nicole Rae Melzer and her husband, Ron Erdmann of Minneapolis; his grandchildren, Emma and Alison Limback; and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

John Harry Gareis was born on January 4, 1948, in Hennepin County and later adopted by Harry and Dorothy (Fritche) Gareis. He was a 1966 graduate from New Ulm High School, and later furthered his education at Mankato State University. Early in his life, John worked at Kraft Foods of New Ulm before he was drafted into the U.S. Army. John proudly served his country from 1968-1969 fighting overseas in Vietnam. John later re-enlisted into the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany where he served from 1984-until his honorable discharge and retirement in 2003. Over the course of his military career, John was awarded numerous medals and service decorations, including the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, as well as the Silver Star and retired as a 1SG First Sergeant. Besides his years of dedicated service to his country, John had many other hobbies in life that brought him joy. As a gifted and talented musician, John loved playing music. He played with the bands 100 Proof and Clover on bass guitar as well as keyboard. He also wrote songs that the band recorded on their album. He enjoyed travelling when he could, and especially enjoyed travelling across Europe during his time stationed in Germany. John was united in marriage to Beverly Melzer in New Ulm on July 22, 2020, and together the couple enjoyed their retired lives together in New Ulm. John had a special place in his heart for his trusty Yorkie dogs, Zeus and Iris. Zeus was always by his side and brought him so much joy in life. Although John's passing seems sudden and unexpected to most, countless memories of the good times shared with him will stay in the hearts and minds of all who had the honor of knowing him. Blessed be those memories.