Gary Wayne Hunwardsen

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of St. Croix in his honor.

Gary Wayne Hunwardsen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully on March 26th in his home in Kingsley, IA.

Funeral Service will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at First Lutheran Church in Kingsley, IA with Pastor Jason Letsche officiating. Visitation with family present will be 5-7 p.m. on Monday at Kingsley Funeral Home and Monument/Rhode Funeral Home with a prayer service at 7 p.m.

He was born on November 11, 1938, in Correctionville, Iowa, to Otto and Ella (Christophersen) Hunwardsen.

Gary’s early years were spent in Cushing, where he attended grade school, before returning to Correctionville for middle school and later graduating from Correctionville High School in 1958. Shortly after, he answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Marine Corps from 1958 to 1961, stationed at Camp Pendleton, California.

Upon returning home, Gary embarked on a dedicated career, first as the produce manager at National Food Store before joining UPS, where he worked diligently for 31 years until his retirement. He was a confirmed lifelong member of the Lutheran Church, grounding his life in faith and service.

On August 23, 1986, Gary married the love of his life, Mary (Bottjen), at First Lutheran Church in Kingsley, Iowa. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure—cherishing their travels with friends and competing in euchre tournaments.

A devoted public servant, Gary was deeply involved in his community, serving on zoning committees, holding multiple positions at First Lutheran Church, and serving as the Mayor of Kingsley for two years, as well as a longtime council member. He was also a proud and active member of the American Legion Post 140 in Kingsley.

Beyond his civic contributions, Gary found joy in the simple pleasures of life—gardening, golfing, fishing, and playing cards. Above all, he treasured time spent with his family and grandchildren, who brought him endless joy and pride.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Mary; his brother, Dale Hunwardsen; and his sister, Lois Gotliebson. He leaves behind his sons, Kirk Hunwardsen and Jason (Linda) Bottjen; daughters, Tonya Hunwardsen and Jackie (Craig) Larsen; daughter-in-law, Colleen (Dan) Mockler; seven grandchildren, five step-grandchildren, two great-granddaughters, and three step great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his son, Jeff Bottjen; his parents, Otto and Ella Hunwardsen; his in-laws, Ivan and Ileta Earnest; Vera (sister) and Burdette Lorenzen; Earl Hunwardsen (brother), Roy (Butch)(brother) and Janice (Q-ball) Hunwardsen; Gaylon Gotliebson (brother-in-law); and Rosalie Hunwardsen (sister-in-law).

Gary’s legacy of kindness, dedication, and love will forever be remembered by those whose lives he touched. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and community.