Fools Five Road Race

Fools Five Road Race April 2-3, 2027 | A road race and auction in Lewiston, Minn. with all proceeds going to cancer research. Twitter:
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It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Gary Mills, co-founder of the Fools Five Road Race, who passed away...
08/20/2026

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Gary Mills, co-founder of the Fools Five Road Race, who passed away on August 19th.

Gary's impact on our community is immeasurable. As co-founder of the Fools Five Road Race in 1979, he helped create a tradition that has brought people together for generations. He served as co-race director for 29 years, dedicating countless hours to ensuring the race reflected the spirit of community, service, and fun that he so deeply believed in.

Beyond Fools Five, Gary devoted 32 years to the Lewiston-Altura School District as a beloved educator and coach. His infectious smile, boundless enthusiasm, and unwavering encouragement inspired thousands of students and athletes. Under his leadership, teams earned state championships in cross country, track and field, and wrestling. He was named Minnesota State Coach of the Year in 1998 and had the honor of carrying the Olympic Torch in 1996.

Yet, if you asked Gary, his greatest accomplishment wasn't found in trophies or awards—it was the lifelong relationships he built with his students, their families, and everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Even as he faced stage IV pancreatic cancer, Gary continued his journey with remarkable grace, courage, and determination. We know he drew strength from the unwavering love of his wife, Marlys, and the rest of his family, who stood faithfully by his side every step of the way.

Earlier this year, we were honored to recognize Gary as our Featured Guest, celebrating his decades of dedication and the enduring legacy he leaves behind. We will forever be grateful for his vision, his leadership, and the kindness he shared so freely.

Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest condolences are with Marlys, the entire Mills family, Gary's friends, former students, and all whose lives he touched.

Thank you, Gary, for showing us what it means to lead with heart. Your legacy will continue to cross the finish line with every Fools Five Road Race.

Rest in peace, Gary. ❤️

Link to obituary:
https://www.schoenebergerfuneralhome.com/obituaries/gary-mills

The Fools Five Road Race had a fantastic time participating in the Lewiston Heartland Days parade! 🍬🎉We loved seeing so ...
06/28/2026

The Fools Five Road Race had a fantastic time participating in the Lewiston Heartland Days parade! 🍬🎉

We loved seeing so many smiling faces, handing out candy, and celebrating with our amazing community. Thank you to everyone who came out to cheer on the parade and helped make it such a fun day.

Today we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom this Memori...
05/25/2026

Today we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom this Memorial Day. 🇺🇸

We are grateful. ❤️

Fools Five Album #6
04/17/2026

Fools Five Album #6

Fools Five album #5
04/17/2026

Fools Five album #5

Fols Five Album #2 - thank you to this year's photographer Dawn Hauge!
04/17/2026

Fols Five Album #2 - thank you to this year's photographer Dawn Hauge!

Fools Five Album #1 - thanks to this year's photographer Dawn Hauge!
04/17/2026

Fools Five Album #1 - thanks to this year's photographer Dawn Hauge!

Each year, the Fools Five Road Race proudly recognizes an individual whose dedication, heart, and service embody the spi...
04/16/2026

Each year, the Fools Five Road Race proudly recognizes an individual whose dedication, heart, and service embody the spirit of the Betty Carlson Volunteer Award.

In 2026, we are honored to celebrate Dave Riebel as this year’s recipient. 💙

In a truly special moment, Dave’s son, Jackson, had the honor of recognizing his dad, while Betty’s husband, Al, presented the award, making it a meaningful tribute that brought together family, tradition, and community.

In Jackson’s own words: “What sets Principal Dave apart is the work he and the staff at Lewiston Altura Elementary School have done to involve the next generation of community members in the Fools Five and its fight against cancer. At LA Elementary, Fools Five season is something kids look forward to, filled with pep rallies, prizes, teaches in silly costumes and pies in principal’s faces. Students are shown that supporting those in need is fun, and even the hardest problems can be solved with teamwork and the right attitude. Elementary and intermediate school students have raised tens of thousands of dollars for cancer research, including more than $16,000 in 2026.

As Dave has faced his own battle with pancreatic cancer, the same community that he has worked to build has embraced and supported him in return.”

We are rooting for you, Dave, and your impact does not go unnoticed. Thank you for everything you do to make Fools Five what it is today. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor! 👏

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P. O. Box 325
Lewiston, MN
55952

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