Gary Kennedy

Gary Kennedy, 89 of Story City,  Iowa, died on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at Southfield Wellness Community, in Webster City. A visitation will be at Boman Funeral Home (www.bomanfh.com), in Webster City, from 12:00-1:15 PM, on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, followed by the funeral service at 1:30 PM.

Gary was born on November 17, 1935, at the Hamilton County Hospital in Webster City, Iowa, to James Jay and Erma (Beisner) Kennedy. He was a triplet, alongside his brothers Garland Lee and Gerald, who passed away several days after birth, followed by his mother a few weeks later. Gary was also raised with his stepmother, Edna Kennedy, and half-brother Jim Kennedy.

Gary spent part of his childhood in St. Louis, Missouri, with Raymond and Zola Blue while his father served in the military. The family later moved to the Ellsworth area, where he graduated from Ellsworth High School in 1955 before serving in the U.S. Army.

On June 14, 1959, Gary married Helga Oppedal. They raised a family while he worked on the farm for 26 years. In 1986, Gary and his family moved to Story City, where he worked in various jobs, ultimately retiring from Iowa State University.

He was truly blessed with a fulfilling life, one rich in love and happiness. His greatest joy came from his family—watching them grow, spending time at the lake, and enjoying lively card games around a crowded table.

Gary’s family includes his children: J.B. Kennedy and Marlene (Tracy) Ihle; and his grandchildren: Raymond Kennedy, Megan Kennedy-Ashworth, Rachel Kennedy, Benjamin Kennedy, and Amanda Ihle.