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Gary Gravlund Obituary
In Loving Memory
Gary R. Gravlund
May 25, 1967 - December 21, 2024
A Celebration of Life
Sunday, May 25, 2025
11:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.
Community Center
Ayrshire, Iowa
Gary Robert Gravlund, son of Cleo and Shirley (Bowman) Gravlund, was born May 25, 1967. He received his education in Ayrshire, graduating from Ayrshire Consolidated High School.
Following graduation, Gary farmed with his father and later with Randy Loomis. He enjoyed farming and referred to it as “God’s Country”. Gary also did trucking for Sloan Trucking, Larry Rustan Trucking, Butler Trucking and Heiter Trucking.
Gary had most recently driven for Sloan Trucking and would haul livestock to the Amish in Pennsylvania. The people he delivered to really liked Gary and if he didn’t show up for a couple of weeks, they would call him just to be sure he was alright. This speaks to the kind of person Gary was and how people across the country enjoyed Gary.
When Gary wasn’t on the road he loved caring for his garden, having as many as 200 tomato plants in one year. Gary looked forward to sharing his produce with family and friends. He enjoyed the company of his dogs, Henry and Monday, his cats and chickens. He loved spending time with his nephew, Laine and used to babysit him when he was young, until there was a swing mishap which sent Laine flying. Gary backed away from babysitting duty at that point. He also loved living on the family farm with his fiancé, Shelly and her daughter, Grace.
Gary served on the Ayrshire Fire Department and was a member of the National Rifle Association.
Gary passed away Saturday, December 21, 2024 at his home in Ayrshire, Iowa, at the age of 57. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cleo and Shirley Gravlund; partner, Kym “Angel” Phares; and stepfather, Lawrence Johnson.
He is survived by his fiancé, Michelle “Shelly” Peterson and her daughter, Grace; sister, Anesa McGregor of Ayrshire, Iowa; nephew, Laine Bailey of Estherville, Iowa; as well as countless friends from coast to coast.
Arrangements by Martin-Mattice Funeral Home
Memories and Condolences
for Gary Gravlund
Roger Reed
May 21, 2025
It was always fun to run into Gary and tell stories and give each other a bunch of BS. I really miss him. He helped me out a lot when I was learning to drive semi
Lisa Fernholz
May 21, 2025
Godspeed Gary. Thank you for being such a kind wonderful friend. The world is a sadder place without you in it. You were a true gift of a human and friend
Jane (Loomis) Purcell
January 25, 2025
The news of Gary's passing was such a shock. He was such a light to everyone who knew him. He was funny, had that quick wit and that twinkle in his eye. I am going to miss seeing him in town and at my brother, Randy's farm. I know he will be missed by so many friends and family, it is so sad. I'm sure he will put a good word in for the Iowa farmers when he's chatting with the Lord! Jane and Doug
Susanne Christensen
January 7, 2025
I miss you !! You were there for me after I lost ken and had been a really good friend for many years. I will never forget the good times that were had and the bad times we worked through. Now you can be with your love angel and have some good times with ken until I get there and we can all do couple stuff again. You will be missed by all. I love you ♥
Michelle Petersen
January 4, 2025
To my husband, I miss u every breath every beat of my heart aches terrible and your daughter is crushed we are so lost without u babe. Idk what to do I love u with all my ❤ 4ever, Love,Shelly
Dale Miller
December 28, 2024
Sorry to hear about Gary's passing.
Tina Duis
December 24, 2024
It saddens me deeply with your passing. I'm going to miss your quick smart remarks on things. I'm miss seeing that bright smile and hearing you laugh. May you fly high with those new wings of yours. Rest in peace
Luke Hunefeld
December 24, 2024
Godspeed on the journey home.
Kristina Paradise
December 23, 2024
So sorry to hear of Gary’s passing. Shelly, if you and Gracie need a shoulder, you call me
Cathy Frerk
December 23, 2024
Anesa & family, hugs & prayers to you all.
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