Gary Vander Sluis, a lifelong resident of O’Brien County, passed away April 18, 2020, at the age of 60. There will be no formal services at this time.
Gary was born September 16, 1959. He graduated from the Sutherland Community school system and attended Iowa State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Ag Studies. He worked on the family farm for many years, drove long-distance semi-trucks, and did drafting and design work at JTV Manufacturing in Sutherland, Iowa. He worked as a driver and handyman with Sickelka Agriculture, until progressive heart failure made physical labor impossible.
Gary was a skilled woodworker, an avid deer hunter, and a recklessly good bridge player. His wry, self-effacing sense of humor, gift of gab, and open-hearted willingness to help and work hard endeared him to all.
He is remembered by his mother, Phyllis, Sanborn, IA; brother, Steve, Plainview, TX ; sister Rhonda and wife, Cyndi Rosene, Portland OR; sister Jolene, Omaha, NE; ex-wife Suzanne, Sutherland, IA and stepchildren, Alison Huckaby, Sutherland, IA and Shawn Syndergaard, Scottsdale, AZ, as well as many other relatives and friends.
A memorial service will be held at a later date, when COVID virus restrictions are lifted.