Gary Lee Blott, 81, of Burlington, died at Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House on May 23, 2023, surrounded by his family.
Gary was born on June 1, 1941 in Burlington. He was the son of James and Janette Danielson Blott of Burlington.
Gary graduated from Burlington High School in 1959 and started working for Murray Ironworks. He then joined the Army National Guard stationed in San Antonio, Texas, as a medic.
On Aug. 19, 1967, he married Sharon Evans of Fort Madison. They were married in Fort Madison at First Baptist Church and have been married 55 years.
In his younger years, Gary raised quail and English-Setter bird dogs, entering field trials, winning many first-place trophies. He enjoyed wood carving, cars, hunting, fishing, canoeing, and going to his grandchildren’s sporting events. He also enjoyed taking cruises and visiting National Parks with his wife and family. Yellowstone was his favorite.
He was a lifelong member of the West Burlington United Methodist Church and served on various committees.
In Sept. of 2007, Gary retired with 48 years of service as a Senior Design Coordinator with Dresser-Rand [formerly Murray Ironworks / Murray-Tuthill].
He is survived by his wife, Sharon; daughter Shelly [Tom] Watts of Burlington; three grandchildren Alex [Courtney] Gaddis of Bethesda Maryland, Tyler [Samantha] Watts of Fort Madison, and Sami Watts of Iowa City.
He was preceded in death by his father and mother.
A visitation will be held at Lunning Funeral Chapel with family present, Thursday, May 25, from 5 to 7 p.m.
The funeral service will be held at Lunning Funeral Chapel, Friday, May 26, at 2:30 p.m. with Pastor Nancy Sutherland officiating. Interment services at Aspen Grove Cemetery immediately following. A time of food and fellowship will be held at West Burlington United Methodist Church after services.
A memorial has been established for West Burlington United Methodist Church.