Gary Lee Martin

Gary Lee Martin, 73, of Clarion passed away Saturday, June 13, 2020 at Iowa Specialty Hospital in Clarion.

Graveside services for Gary Martin will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday, June 18, 2020 at Evergreen Cemetery in Clarion with Pastor Bill Kem officiating. Those who attend are invited to bring a lawn chair, and will be asked to follow social distancing guidelines.

Gary Lee, son of Leighton and Margaret (Graves) Martin was born on September 12, 1946 in Hampton, Iowa. He graduated from Clarion High School in 1964. Gary served in the Army from 1965 to 1967 while stationed in Germany.

After returning back to his home state, Gary was united in marriage to Laural “Laurie” Holmgaard on September 12, 1970.  They chose this date so Gary would always remember his anniversary and birthday. To this happy union daughter Danielle and son Bradd were born.

Gary worked at Asgrow Seed Corn Company for 27 years mainly on the production line. He enjoyed golfing with his buddies and he loved to fish the area lakes and trying his luck heading north into Minnesota.  Gary was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan holding season tickets for years, enjoying the games with Bradd and decorating the yard with all the Hawkeye stuff.

Gary’s granddaughters were a big highlight in his life and he enjoyed helping with Special Olympics. They made him smile. Gary was a funny guy and really liked people and could be fiery if he needed to take on the world. Despite being a picky eater Gary loved grilled hamburgers, apple pie and making chili in the winter.

Gary is survived by his loving wife Laurie of Clarion; daughter Danielle (Paul) Hansch of Clarion; son Bradd Martin of Boone; granddaughters, Kelsey, Quinn, Lauren Hansch and Lillian Martin; brother Ed (Jane) Martin of Clarion; sister Sandie Martin of Clarion; niece Marissa Lane; nephews Rod & Jeff Martin, Bryce Hamilton and many friends.

Gary was preceded in death by parents and infant sister.