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Gary E. Welton, age 77 of Cloquet, Minnesota, passed away Wednesday, April 19, 2023, in his home. He was born in Cloquet on Dec. 28, 1945, the son of James and Ida (Johnson) Welton. Gary was married to Marlene Trettel and together raised their daughter, Kelly. He was employed with the Cloquet School District as a special education teacher and community education director for many years. He also taught for the McGregor School District in the capacity of special education and also coached girls’ basketball.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Robert “Bob” Welton; and daughter, Kelly Wait. He is survived by his son-in-law, David Wait; sister-in-law, Bonnie Welton; cousins, Sandy (Marty) Angell, Daryl (Carol) Niemi, Terry (Frances) Niemi, Bobby (Janet) Johnson, Maija (Kali) Lipponen, and Linda Johnson Edwards; nieces, Breanna, Maija, and Lisee; numerous extended family members. Gary will be missed by all those who knew and loved him.

A graveside service for Gary will be held Saturday, June 24, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at New Calvary Cemetery in Cloquet. Arrangements are entrusted to Nelson Funeral Care.