Gary R. King, 74, of Eldridge, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at Fieldstone of DeWitt in DeWitt, Iowa. Gary will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, loyal friend, and a man whose generous heart, infectious laugh, and welcoming spirit left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A service to celebrate Gary's life will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Faith Lutheran Church in Eldridge, where he was a longtime and faithful member. Visitation will be from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to Faith Lutheran Church's Camp Scholarship Fund or to the Stead Family Children's Hospital in Iowa City. Chambers Funeral Home of Eldridge is assisting the family with arrangements.

Gary was born in Davenport, Iowa on March 11, 1952, the son of Ralph and Jeanette (Wenndt) King. He earned his associate's degree from Kirkwood College in Cedar Rapids and proudly served his country as a member of the Iowa Army National Guard.

On June 28, 1975, Gary married the love of his life, Joni K. Beranek, in Shueyville, Iowa. Together they built a life centered on love, family, faith, and hard work, sharing more than fifty years of memories before Joni's passing on June 16, 2026. Their enduring love was an inspiration to all who knew them.

Farming was never simply Gary's livelihood—it was his passion. As a lifelong farmer in Lowden, he took great pride in caring for his land and especially his cattle. He also spent nearly three decades as a UPS delivery driver in Clinton, Iowa, where his friendly smile and genuine kindness brightened the days of countless customers and coworkers alike.

Gary had a gift for making people feel like lifelong friends. With his booming laugh, easygoing nature, and warm sense of humor, he truly never met a stranger. Whether visiting over a cold Pepsi, playing a spirited game of cards, or striking up a conversation with someone new, Gary's presence made people feel welcome.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Gary faithfully cheered on the Iowa Hawkeyes football and basketball teams and remained a devoted Philadelphia Phillies fan. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing semi-professional baseball, and throughout his life he rarely missed the excitement of auto racing, especially NASCAR. No matter the event, Gary loved sharing those moments with family and friends.

Above all else, Gary treasured his family. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his children and grandchildren, celebrating their accomplishments, and creating memories they will carry with them forever.

Those left to cherish his memory include his daughter, Kristi (Nick) Cummins of Newton, Iowa; his son, Corey (Stacie) King of Montgomery, Ohio; his beloved grandchildren, Colin and Allyson Cummins, and Kylie, Hayden, and Tyler King; his sister, Vicky (Rick) Brunscheen of Wyoming, Iowa; along with many extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Gary was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joni, and his parents, Ralph and Jeanette.

Though Gary's family deeply mourns his loss, they find comfort in the countless memories he leaves behind—a life defined by unwavering faith, tireless work, steadfast love for his family, and friendships that spanned a lifetime. His laughter, kindness, and generous spirit will be profoundly missed but lovingly remembered by all whose lives he touched.

Condolences may be expressed to the family by viewing his obituary at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com.