Obituary

Gary Pierce, age 65, of Denver, Colorado and formerly of Grinnell, Iowa, passed away Saturday, October 24, 2026 at Denver Health Hospital.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, November 3, 2026 at Hazelwood Cemetery in Grinnell. The family will receive friends at the visitation prior to the service from 9 AM until 10 AM at the Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell

Gary Dale Pierce was born on August 14, 1961, in Grinnell, Iowa, the son of Robert and Roberta (Hanson) Pierce. He was raised in Grinnell and graduated from Grinnell High School with the Class of 1979. After High School he continued his education at University of Northern Iowa.

Following his education, Gary moved to Denver, Colorado, where he managed a Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant. He subsequently lived in Boulder and Longmont, Colorado, and worked as a purchasing agent for Pro Lego.

Gary enjoyed capturing the beauty of nature through photography, riding his bicycle, and traveling in Mexico. A foodie at heart, he loved trying different foods and discovering new flavors. His easygoing personality made visiting with others a pleasure, and he loved all animals. The neighborhood dogs and squirrels always knew he would have a treat and drink of water for them.

Gary is survived by his siblings, Cathy Buck of Des Moines, Iowa, David Pierce of Des Moines, Iowa, Marvin Pierce of Denver, Colorado, Diane Mindrup of North Richland Hills, Texas, Karen Meyer of West Liberty, Iowa, and Richard (Deb) Meyer of Mechanicsville, Iowa; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.