Gary R. Wiese

            Gary R. Wiese, 79, of Lakeland, FL passed away on Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, surrounded by his family.

            He was born on October 30, 1941 in Welton, IA to the late Loyal J. and Esther Wiese.  He graduated from Welton High School in 1959 and served in the U.S. Navy.  He and his former wife, Beverly moved to Lakeland in 1973, where he was employed by Mosaic Company for 36 years.  After retirement, he worked and golfed at Cypress Lakes Golf Club.

            Gary’s greatest loves included golfing, travel, playing cards, supporting Lakeland Dreadnaught Football, and daily walks with his best furry pal “Benny.”  He was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.  Universally loved, he will be missed.

            He is survived by sons, David (Veronica), Box Springs, GA, Richard (Laura), Davenport, FL, Eric (Kimberly), Tampa, FL, and his life partner of 20 years, Karen Lappalainen and her daughter, Kristen (Dave).  He is also survived by siblings Jack (Carolyn), DeWitt, IA, Karen (Tim) Derrick, Prosser, WA, James (Margot), Mulberry, FL, and Jerry “Buzzy”, Welton, IA; eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

            Memorial services will be held on later dates in Welton, IA and Lakeland, FL, and interment will take place at Florida National Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

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