Garritt Santema

Garritt Gene Santema, Sr. 60 year old resident of Little Falls, MN died Wednesday, May 9 at his home in Little Falls, MN. A funeral service is pending. Garritt Gene Santema was born April 24, 1952 in Milaca, MN to Arlene Ziemer and the late Garritt Santema. The family resided in Milaca, MN for a short time before moving to Little Falls, MN. He attended Little Falls Community Schools and graduated in 1970. Garritt worked various jobs throughout Morrison County after high school. On October 31, 1978, he enlisted in the United States Army and served his country until October 30, 1981. During his military duty, he received the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon and the Overseas Service Ribbon. Garritt returned to Morrison County after his military discharge. He worked at Camp Ripley and at the "Kitchen" in Little Falls, MN as a cook. Garritt enjoyed painting, scratch art, putting together model kits and watching movies especially Westerns with Roy Rogers, John Wayne and Zoro. He was a member of the VFW Granite Post #428 in St. Cloud, MN. Left to cherish his memory are his mother, Arlene Santema of Little Falls, MN; children, David Santema, Garritt Santema, Jr. John Santema; siblings, Greg Santema, Barbara Erickson and Gail Santema; three grandchildren and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Garritt Santema on June 18, 2010.