Larry Mackie, age 75, was called home by his Savior, Jesus Christ, on December 22, 2025, after complications from Parkinson’s disease. He was born on August 15, 1950, in Eldora, Iowa, to Clarence and Ruth Mackie. He was baptized at First Baptist Church in Grundy Center in 1962.
Larry was united in marriage to Marie Sturtz on September 18, 1976, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in rural Boone; they were blessed with three children: Brett, Mollie, and Audra, and eventually 8 grandchildren.
Larry grew up on a farm in Grundy Center, where he developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors. As a boy, Larry enjoyed hunting, and he later spent many years trapping in the Grundy Center area, activities that reflected his strong work ethic and connection to the land.
He helped his father and brothers farm after graduating from Grundy Center High School in 1968. He later began work as a machinist at Sauer-Danfoss in Ames and worked there for 37 years.
Larry looked forward to celebrating birthday parties and holidays with the kids and grandkids. He loved spoiling their dogs, Chico, Peanut, Taz, Kona, and Ollie. Larry’s hobbies included gardening, car repairs & restorations, trapping, thrift shopping for collectibles, and attending gun shows and the annual National Trappers Association Convention.
Larry is survived by his wife of 49 years, Marie Mackie; his children: Brett Mackie, Mollie (Jeff) Fahrmann, and Audra (Nathan) Thede; and his eight grandchildren: Cael, Colby, and Calla Fahrmann, and Samuel, Claire, Brielle, Isaiah, and Ailah Thede. He is also survived by his siblings, Leroy (Connie) Mackie, Leona (Steve) Montag, Leota (Terry) Dean, and Leon (Kelly) Mackie, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Ruth Mackie, and by his nephew, Nathan McGrane.
Larry will be remembered for his strong work ethic and commitment to providing for his family and the unique, quiet ways he showed his love and dedication to those around him.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, with Pastor Michael Standfest officiating. Interment will be at St. Paul’s Lutheran Cemetery following the funeral service. Visitation with the family present will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Friday, December 26, 2025, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Parish Hall.
Memorials are suggested to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.
Schroeder-Stark-Welin Funeral Home, 515-432-4550.
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