Garret Lee Briggs, 46, of Ellendale passed away Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, at his home.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at First Lutheran Church in Ellendale. The Rev. Richard Sliper will officiate. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at First Lutheran Church in Ellendale and one hour prior to the services Saturday. Interment will take place at a later date.

Garret Lee Briggs was born in Albert Lea on Oct. 7, 1973, to Phillip and Karen (Cleven) Briggs. He grew up in Ellendale, graduating from NRHEG in 1991. After high school Garret enrolled in an auto body mechanics program at Albert Lea VoTech and was a devoted employee for TNT Body Shop in Hartland for over 20 years.

After being a couple for 17 years, Garret married April Martin on Jan. 19, 2018.

Garret loved playing pool and made many friends through his years of league play. His adoration for classic cars inspired him to purchase a 1966 Chevelle, on which Garret spent hours wrenching and restoring. Stealing money from Diamond Jo Casino was another one of his favorite pastimes. Most of all, Garret found fulfillment and pride attending his kids’ sporting activities.

Sarcastic with a deadpan wit, Garret kept you on your toes as to whether you were catching his humorous or serious side. Garret will be remembered for his love for family and willingness to help others.

Garret is survived by his wife, April Martin Briggs; his children Alan, Tyler, Andrea and Gavin; his parents Phillip and Karen Briggs; his sister, Denise Briggs, and her children and grandchildren Aaron (Molly) Liverseed and daughter, Lorelei, Santana (Tim Williams) Liverseed and daughters Klare and Caroline; and his brother, Scott Briggs. Garrett is also survived by his uncle, Earl (Diane) Cleven, and their children Katie Richards and Jessie Pendergrast; and his uncle, Russel Briggs, and his children Robert and Kenny. Also having shared in his life are his parents-in-law Gail Martin Bartlett and Stan Bartlett; and his siblings-in-law Jon (Lisa) Martin, Angela (Jason) Grant and Gina Martin.

Garret was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Lewis and Orlean Cleven; paternal grandparents Otis and June Briggs; his aunt, Diane Briggs; and great-niece, Ava Liverseed.