Gary "Airport" Henry Lietzau, 75, of Grand Forks, ND, died on Friday, September 11, 2015, at the Halstad Living Center, Halstad, MN. He was born at home in Home Lake Township, rural Twin Valley, MN, to Henry and Nina (Vigesaa) Lietzau on July 30, 1940.

Gary was baptized and confirmed at Winchester Lutheran Church, Borup, MN. He graduated from the Borup High School in 1958. Following his schooling, Gary worked for Hartzell Barnes Gravel. Gary entered the United States Air Force on March 8, 1960. He was honorably discharged. Following his service, Gary worked for Peppel Bros Farms.

After his discharge, Gary moved to Grand Forks, ND, and was employed at the Grand Forks International Airport. He worked for North Central airlines for two years, Republic Airlines for two years, and Northwest Airlines for 26 years. Gary was famous for saying that "he did every job at the airport except fly an airplane". He retired in 2000.

Being an avid UND Hockey fan, Gary and Sammy, a good friend, attended many games both in Grand Forks and around the country. He also enjoyed WCHA Hockey. When hockey was not in season, Gary was a passionate fan of the World of Outlaw Sprint Car Racing. He and Sammy also were able to follow the racers around the country. Gary was a member of the Eagle's Club, VFW, and the American Legion, where he served as the manager of gaming for many years, all of East Grand Forks. Gary loved being with people and was proud to serve his country.

Gary is survived by his sisters, Lois (Jim) Gnadt, Ada, MN; Sherry (Jerry) Sorenson, Clear Lake, MN; and Betty Cameron, San Jose, CA; brother, Bruce Shirley, Fargo, ND; and several nephews and nieces: Jerry Gnadt, God Daughter, Kellee Thingelstad, Virginia Olson, Nikki Sorenson, Jason Sorenson, and Trisha Shirley. He was preceded in death by his parents, step-dad: Leland Shirley, and sister, Zelda Brendemuhl.

Memorial services will be on Thursday, September 17, 2015, at 11 AM in the Winchester Lutheran Church, Borup, MN.

Visitation will be one hour before the service in the church.

Military honors will be provided by the American Legion Post #157 and the VFW of East Grand Forks, MN.

Burial will be in the Winchester Lutheran Cemetery, Borup, MN.