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