OBITUARY

Gary Lee Huffman

1950 - 2019

Gary was born on June 21st, 1950 in Sioux City, Iowa to Dale Richard Huffman and Sylvia Marie (Moore) Huffman.  Gary passed away in his home surrounded by family on October 19th, 2019.

Gary and his 6 siblings grew up on a farm in rural Decatur, Nebraska. Gary attended Decatur Public School and graduated in 1968. He then enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. and served from 1968-1970 with 1 year in Vietnam with the 1st Marine Division. He earned the following medals, badges and commendations: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 1 star, RVN Cross of Gallantry with Palm and Frame, Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, Combat Action Ribbon and Rifle Sharpshooter Badge.

He married Kathy Smith on June 23rd, 1973 in Decatur. They made their home in Decatur after a brief residing in Omaha, Nebraska. To this union two daughters were born, Kelly in 1976 and Krystal in 1979. Gary was a loving husband and devoted father and grandfather.
Gary started working in Omaha in 1972 with Local 571 as a heavy equipment operator. He continued for 35 years as an operator and supervisor of heavy equipment and then retired in 2005. He then worked part time as an equipment operator on a barge-line on the Missouri River.

He was a member of the VFW, American Legion and the Light of the World Gospel Ministry Church where he was also baptized.

One of his favorite pastimes was enjoying God's creations on the backs of horses and mules in Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota and Nebraska with his wife Kathy and their friends. His favorite times were spent with his daughters Kelly and Krystal boating, riding horses and going to their sporting events in high school. His greatest blessing during retirement was getting to spend time with his two grandsons Garret and Morgan teaching them outdoor skills, riding horses and attending their football, basketball and baseball games.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Dale and Sylvia Huffman; siblings, Marilyn (Huffman) Kellogg and Jimmy Huffman.

Gary is survived by his wife, Kathy of Decatur; daughters, Kelly (Rod) Micek of Lincoln, NE and Krystal Huffman of Decatur; brothers, Jerry Huffman of Decatur and Jack (Kaye) Huffman of Decatur; sisters, Peggy (Connie) Jump of Decatur and Pam (Pat) Bacon of Decatur; sister-in-law, Janny Huffman of Decatur; many nieces, nephews and cousins.