Gary A. Turk, 70, died Wednesday, July 13, 2011, after a long battle with liver disease. He was born May 22, 1941, to Al and Mildred Turk and grew up in Crosby, MN. He was hired by IBM as a software engineer after completing degrees in mathematics and physics at Mankato State College(University). He worked for IBM for 31 years before joining Mayo Clinic as a software engineer for another 10 years. During his early years with IBM, he worked at the Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD. Gary's interests were varied. He liked nature, photography, gardening, reading, amateur radio, coaching soccer, football, golden retrievers, spending time at Whitewater State Park and along the Mississippi River. He also served on a number of city and state committees. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Fran; sons, Jon and Michael(Kari) of Rochester, MN; a brother, Tom of Crosby, MN; an aunt, Mary Jones of Brainerd, MN; nephews, Jeffrey and Brandon(Amy) of Crosby, MN; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Linda and Bill Milow of Mankato, MN. He was preceded in death by his parents. His family would like to express special thanks to Gary's physicians and the medical staff at Seasons Hospice. Memorials are suggested to Seasons Hospice or charity of the donor's choice. A private family memorial is planned. Those who would like to share memories of him or condolences on-line may do so atwww.ranfranzandvinefh.com. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place N.W.Rochester, MN 55901 (507)289-3600