Gary Vernett Embretson was born February 10, 1937 in Elkader, Iowa. A lifetime educator, his high school teaching and coaching career took him to Mount Pleasant, Iowa; Stevens Point, Wisconsin; and Rock Island, Illinois before being called back to his beloved alma mater, Luther College where he served for four years as teacher, coach, and associate athletic director.
In January 1976 he and his family moved to Apple Valley, Minnesota where he became the first athletic director, negotiated with the city in the building of a new ice arena, and was instrumental in hiring teachers and coaches for the new school which would soon become one of the premier high schools in the state. No longer coaching, he was an avid supporter and attendee at Apple Valley athletic events.
A firm believer in the Apple Valley Triple AAA (Arts, Athletics and Academics) philosophy, he and his family spent many evenings enjoying the music, drama, and fine arts program that became a hallmark of AVHS. He is the only faculty member to have attended 25 AVHS proms.
During the 25 years he spent at Apple Valley High School he mentored teachers, brought to the district The National Coalition for Equality and Learning, and chaired the referendum that built Eagan High School. He relished his contacts with students, teachers and parents as well as the secretarial, custodial staffs and anyone associated with AVHS.
A man of quiet faith, he and his family joined Grace Lutheran Church in 1977. He was an active member having served on various committees, church council, and as president of the congregation.
He and his family have always loved being a part of the Apple Valley Community. More than once he remarked that we were lucky to have landed here. He died on 9/18/20 from complications of Alzheimers and Parkinsons. He is survived by Jan, his wife of 55 years; daughters Sigrid and Tova (both teachers) and their husbands Allen and Dustin; grand children Johanna, Isabella, Erik, Levi, Aden, and Soren and great grand daughter Scarlett Kay. He is already greatly missed.
Memorials preferred to Grace Lutheran Church or Apple Valley High School. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.