Gary Edwards

Gary grew up in Fontanelle, Iowa in a small farm house. He was one of 12 children- 6 boys and 6 girls (he was lucky #7 to be exact) in the Edwards clan! He married Sharon Kay Griffith on July 27, 1957, and they moved to Des Moines, where he became a milkman. However, that was only for a short time, as soon after, he worked the nightshift at Armstrong Tire and Rubber Company for many years.

In 1970, he and Sharon bought some land and built a red brick home between Earlham and DeSoto. A few years later, Gary became the owner and manager of Edwards’ Oil Company- a  gas station/truck stop south of I-80 at Exit 106. After selling the business, he and Sharon went into semi-retirement and wintered in Mesa, Arizona.

Gary and Sharon enjoyed many activities during their married life including traveling, camping, gardening, bowling, dog racing and playing cards with friends. And yes, they loved having a cocktail or two with so many different friends through the years!

Gary was married to Sharon for 61 years before she passed away in October 27, 2018.  Since then, he had been living in his new house in Adel, Iowa where he stayed busy keeping it in immaculate condition.  Just this year, he was so excited to finally get his electric Kia!  He enjoyed driving it around, showing it to family and friends.

He is survived by his three sons: Bret (Lisa) Edwards, Brian Edwards and Brad (Alicia) Edwards, seven grandchildren: Abbie and Kayci (Bret & Lisa); Rhiannon and Keely (Brian); Christopher, Alyssa and Connor as well as Jess Pekins, Connor’s fiancé (Brad & Alicia), four great-grandchildren: Mya (Abbie Edwards); Claire and Remy (Christopher & Katie Edwards; Jameson (Alyssa and Drew Doig), sisters: Beverly Main, Wanda Purdy, Karen (Katie) Boone, Pam Scott, brothers: Bob Edwards, Jeff Edwards and Marty Edwards

He is preceded in death by his wife, Sharon Kay Edwards; his daughter-in-law, Diana Edwards; his sister, Phyllis Rohner; his brother, Neil Edwards; his sister, Ileta Jensen; his brother Merrill (Toby) Edwards.

There will be a Celebration of Life “Party” (as per Gary’s request) on Saturday, October 1st from 3 PM – 7 PM at the Veteran’s Reception Center (910 Main St., Van Meter, Iowa 50261).  Dinner and drinks will be served with a short program at 6 PM. We hope you can join us to celebrate the life of Gary Leo Edwards!

If you feel compelled, in lieu of any gifts or flowers, please donate to the cause of your choice in Gary’s name. Thank you!