Gaynard Strong "Ah-Kway-We-Dung", age 66 of Vermilion Reservation – Tower died Friday, January 20, 2017 in his home, under the care of Essentia East Range Hospice. He was born October 1, 1950 in Cloquet, the son of Albert and Ruthann (Boshey) Strong, grew up in Nett Lake, and was a longtime resident of the Vermilion Reservation. Gaynard was employed by US Steel Minntac for 35+ years, and worked for Fortune Bay during mining lay-offs. He liked cars, fast cars, his Dodge Daytona, concerts, music, ricing and parching wild rice, dining out, movies, watching car auctions, and his dogs. Gaynard cherished time spent with his family, especially his daughters and grandchildren. He was loving, patient, and would help anyone in need. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Gaynard is survived by his daughters: Rhiannon (Carlos Hernandez) Strong of Vermilion – Tower and Allison (Alex Nelson) Strong of Balkan Township; grandchildren: Aolani Strong, Kayden Hernandez, and Carlos Hernandez, Jr.; sister: Phyllis Boshey of Vermilion – Tower; brother: Rodney Strong of International Falls; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends; and his faithful canine companion: Scruffy.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters: Sara Koochie and Mary Strong; brother: Ken Strong, Sr.; and grandson: Starlin Strong.

Visitation begins at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 23, 2017 in the Nett Lake Government Center in Nett Lake. Tribal Rites will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 24, 2017 in the Nett Lake Government Center. Interment will follow in the Strong Family Cemetery.

Out of respect to Miidewin tradition, please refrain from wearing anything red in color to the visitation and service.

Family Services provided by Bauman Vermilion, A Bauman Family Funeral Home in Tower. To share condolences online, please see: www.baumanfuneralhome.com.