BOONE, Iowa—Gary Lee Irvine, age 88, passed away on Saturday, November 29, 2025.
Gary was born on August 21, 1937, in Boone, Iowa, the son of Bill and Leora Irvine.
He remained a lifelong resident of the Boone community. He was a proud member of the Boone High School Class of 1955 and stayed actively connected with his classmates throughout his life.
Gary joined the U.S. Navy in 1953 and, upon graduation, volunteered for active duty. He served for two years and was honorably discharged in 1958, continuing his service in the Naval Reserve until 1963.
After returning home in 1958, he joined his father, Bill, at Culligan, where he managed the business until 1987.
In the summer of 1968, Gary met Rosie (Rosaleen Gibbons), and within a few months, they were engaged. They married on January 25, 1969, and Gary lovingly adopted her three-year-old daughter, Jeannie, completing their family of three. Gary was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He loved attending sporting events—especially those of his daughter and grandchildren. He and Rosie were enthusiastic fans, frequently traveling across the state and
country to support Beau and Pierce, becoming beloved by teammates and their families along the way. Gary made friends wherever he went and truly never met a stranger.
Beyond his love of sports, Gary cherished morning coffees with friends, countless family gatherings—including Sunday visits at Stella’s with the Gibbons family—and memorable travels with friends and loved ones. He was an active member of Central Christian Church, serving as an Elder, Trustee, and President of the Board. He was also involved with the American Legion, Boone JC & Elks Clubs, the I-Club, and Boone Boosters.
Gary later worked at Arnold’s Motor, where he enjoyed the close camaraderie of his coworkers and remained until his retirement in 2015.
Gary was preceded in death by his grandchild, Pierce (Lux) Blazek. He is survived by his wife, Rosie Irvine of Boone; his daughter and son-in-law, Jeannie and Steve Blazek of Arvada, CO; and his grandson, Dr. Beau Blazek of Las Vegas, NV, and beloved brother and sisters-in-law, and their families.
A graveside service will be at Linwood Park Cemetery on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. Military Honors will be provided by the Boone Veterans Council. Following the graveside service, a luncheon will be held at Central Christian Church in Boone.
Memorials are suggested to the family to use at their discretion.
Schroeder-Stark-Welin Funeral Home, 609 7th Street, Boone, Iowa is assisting the family with these arrangements.
Gary Irvine, 88, Boone, Iowa
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