Gary Wegner
November 28, 1940 ~ April 12, 2014
Gary F. Wegner age 73 of New Hampton, Iowa died Saturday morning, April 12, 2014, at Mercy Medical Center in Mason City.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 16, 2014, at Holy Family Parish-St. Joseph Center, New Hampton with Rev. Mark Osterhaus celebrating the Mass. The pall will be placed by Michael Denner, Zach Denner, Hannah Denner, Darian Wegner and Sydney Wegner. Lectors for the service will be Gretta Hackman, Jill Boogerd and Denise Gordan. Presenting the offertory gifts will be Janet Wegner, Linda Denner, Jamie and Nick Wegner. Presenting roses will be Molly Wegner, Emma Hovenga and Kuennen Wegner.
Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, New Hampton with Nick Shatek, Nick Koelker, Monty Vikdal, Bill Eischeid, Ryan Wegner and Spencer Wegner as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Gary's grandchildren, Zach Denner, Michael Denner, Hannah Denner, Darian Wegner, Sydney Wegner, Molly Wegner, Emma Hovenga and Kuennen Wegner, along with Steve Wegner, Russell Wegner, Steve Boos and Jim Boos.
Friends may greet the family 3:00 - 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, 2014, at the St. Joseph Gathering Space, where there will be a Knights of Columbus Rosary held at 2:30 p.m. Visitation continues an hour prior to the Mass at the St. Joseph Gathering Space on Wednesday.
Funeral arrangements are with the Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home in New Hampton.
Gary Francis Wegner was born November 28, 1940, in New Hampton, IA, the son of John and Margaret (Rausch) Wegner. He received his education at St. Joseph Catholic School in New Hampton. As a young man, Gary worked for his dad at Wegner Welding and also worked for several years at the former Hydrotile Company in Nashua. On May 1, 1965, at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in St. Lucas, IA, he married Norma Kuennen. To this union four children were born. Gary and his wife, along with Gary’s brother, Allan purchased Wegner Welding in 1970. Two short years later, Allen died and Gary and Norma continued on as sole owners.
Gary was always interested in bettering his town. The bleachers at the New Hampton High School were a large project Gary was responsible for building. Through his entrepreneurial spirit, the couple grew Wegner Welding and later changed the name to New Hampton Metal Fab. In 2007, the couple sold the business to their sons, Jamie and Nick. After a brave and long battle with cancer, Norma died on September 5, 2009, at the age of 65.
Gary later met Deborah (Boos) Boots and the couple were married on May 11, 2012, at St. Joseph Catholic church in New Hampton. They enjoyed their time visiting family and friends and especially the warm months in Florida.
Gary will be remembered for so many things in the community he dearly loved. Everyone who knew him will remember his infectious smile and laugh. He loved telling stories and was exceptionally good at it. Because he was the adventuresome type, he would ‘try anything once’. He was an active community leader having been president of the Industrial Development Corporation, Past Lions Club President and a former President of the New Hampton Light Plant Board. Gary was instrumental in developing Kenwood Park and starting the tractor pull held there every year in New Hampton. Gary was a visionary in all his endeavors which helped in the different projects he did with both the St. Joseph School and Church. He and Debbie loved their winters in Florida where his vision never ceased and now a park remains dedicated in his name.
Survivors include his wife, Deborah; two daughters, Janet Wegner of Dubuque and Linda (Dave) Denner of New Hampton; two sons, Jamie (Trish) Wegner and Nick (April) Wegner, all of New Hampton; eight grandchildren; four sisters, Kathleen (Kay) Turner, Marilyn Wegner all of New Hampton; Waunita (Ron) Vikdal of North Washington, Joyce (Lester) Shatek of New Hampton; two brothers, Russell (Nancy) Wegner of Fredericksburg and Steve (Sue) Wegner of New Hampton; a step-daughter, Nicole (Nicholas) Koelker of Cedar Falls; his father and mother-in-law, Jim and Florence Boos of New Hampton.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Norma; one granddaughter, Jenna Lynn Denner; two brothers, Allan Wegner in 1972 and Richard Wegner in 1996.
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Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Services created a video in memory of Gary Wegner
Our condolences to all the family, We feel your loss in many ways but know that he remained true to his faith and love of all of his family. God Bless all of you. Stan and Ginny Laures
Dear Jamey, Nick and family, Gary your Dad was a positive, enthusiastic generous man who brought ‘life to the party’. We first met Gary as an associate at the Precast Shows (MCX), as we became friends in the industry, we enjoyed sharing business ideas along with having fun at the many social events throughout the years. Later on we grew to know both Jamey and Nick who are now following his footsteps, with big shoes that fit perfectly. A good man has done a good job! He will be missed. God Bless, Bob, Marlene, Mitch, Michael and Dan Banks
Jamie and families , We are sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. Prayers to you all during this difficult time Pat and Barb Schwamman
Yesterday we laid a beloved friend to rest. We alll know that he was one of the best. God was with him all the way. Gary’s faith would never sway. His mind and body went thru a lot of pain. A trip to heaven was his gain. So, we say goodbye to a dear friend. But pray that we will all see him again. Take care and God bless. Dennis, Janet Kuennen and Family
Our condolences to the Wegner family at this difficult time. So sorry for your loss. Always enjoyed talking with Gary at NPCA events. We’ll miss him. Chris, Wade and Dan Pink, CJ Pink Ltd.
Our sympathy to all of the Wegner family.We have happy memories from our days on the river, especially the La Crosse trips. Thoughts & Prayers, Bill and Sandy Butterbrodt
Our condolences to Jamie, Nick and the whole Wegner family. We are praying for you in your time of loss and grief.
Janet, I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts. Julie Steffen
Deb, we are so sorry to hear of Gary’s death. The time spent with him at Silver Muskie Lodge and with you both at the Lynch garage are very fond memories. We have been thinking of you both often as we followed Gary’s declining health through Duane and Pat. Take care. Sue and Galen Boerhave
My Condolences to the Wegner Family. I was blessed to spend some time With Gary in Michigan at our Pipe Plant, and at the Concrete Pipe shows as well. God Bless.
Wegner Family, We are so sorry for your loss. Gary and I were on the TEC team at St. Joe’s that held the weekend for just the team due to a massive snow storm, many, many years ago. He was as hard-working, fun, and true to himself as anyone I’ve known. It is little wonder that such great parents raised such a tremendous family; they are missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you. John, Sherri, Gerene, and Richie TeKippe
Dear Nick & Jamie, I am sadened to hear about your Dad’s passing. I remember when I first met Gary when he was traveling in PA (25+ years ago). He was selling some forms to Knowlton Construction and Supply in Media, PA. I went out to dinner with him and the owners of Knowlton…Nick and Anthony. He was fun to be with! He was a real ‘Road Warrior’ as I recall…..heck, he drove from Iowa to eastern PA to drum up business. He has left us way too early….I’m very sorry he is not with us now………..I’m sure you have some wonderful memories though! My Sympaty to you and your family, Scott Lander
Beautiful in Blue was purchased for the family of Gary Wegner.
Jamie, Nick, and Family. We are deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Gary. I’ve known you guys since I was a little boy following my dad around the precast shows. Gary has a been a staple in the precast industry just like Nick and Jamie. Gary will be deeply missed and my thoughts and prayer go out to your family.
Our condolences to the Wegner Family. We are saddened on the loss of Gary. We were lifelong friends having grown up together in the same neighborhood. We are extremely proud of his achievements. He is to be commended on all that he gave back to the community. Thank you Gary for your community service. You will be missed by all your friends and classmates. God Bless you Gary. Sincerely, Dan & Pat Fliger
Jamie and Nick, very sorry to learn about Gary, He was a gentleman and person of great integrity, I hope the good memories help you and your family through this time. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Jim Westhoff
Jamie, Nick and family. We are sorry to hear the news of Gary’s passing. I always enjoyed his company as he had a way of lifting the spirits of those around him. A good man who was also a good friend. Dominic and Donnell Girotti
Jamie, Nick & family – It is with much sorrow that I read of Gary’s passing. I share many great memories of Gary from years past and hope that all of you keep those fun times & memories in your hearts through this rough stretch of mourning. God Bless Gary & all of you.
Deb, Nick, April and the entire Wegner family. We are so sorry for your loss. Hold on to all the wonderful memories. We know he will be watching over us when we are fishing. Sincerely, Rick and Micky (Shelly) Fenneman
Jamie, Nick and the whole Wegner family so sorry to hear of the passing of you father. He was agreat guy and fun to be around. I will miss him not being at the shows. Mt prayers go out to all of you.
Our sincerest sympathy to the Wegner family. Know Herman enjoyed working with Gary. I am sure you have many memories to comfort you in the days ahead. Muriel & Herman
To the entire Wegner Family, we are holding you all in thought and prayer. Gary was one of a kind with his friendly smile and always a hug to give. Keep all your family memories close to your heart, he’ll always be close by. God bless you all. Dave and Terry Utterback
My Sympathy to The Wegner Family!! The video tribute was amazing, brought back so many memories of family time spent at the river growing up. Gary’s infectious smile and belly laugh still bring a smile to my face to this day 🙂 Thoughts and prayers to you all during this hard time. Amy (Schaufenbuel) Thompson
Secret Garden Basket was purchased for the family of Gary Wegner.
Jamie, Nick and family. So sorry to hear about your dad. He was a good man and a good friend. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Charlie Ashley
Secret Garden Basket was purchased for the family of Gary Wegner.
American Concrete Pipe Association Staff purchased the Teleflora’s Sacred Cross Bouquet for the family of Gary Wegner.
Jamie, Nick and family, I am very sorry for your loss. I hope you have many fond memories to lift your spirits. You will be in my thoughts and prayers during this challenging time. Alan Siebenthaler
Nick your dad and your family is in our prayers. Our families have had a very long relationship that started with your father’s involvement in Hydrotile’s first 72′ packerhead machine that was put in our Bay City Plant. He was a great and very talented man who leaves us all with great memories…..and machinery! He will be missed. Bill Washabaugh
Our sympathy to all of the Wegner Family,so sorry for your loss.He will be missed by so many.Remember all of the good times,and and I’m sure there were many. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all. Tom and Marian Gebel
Gary was an important supporter and contributor to the concrete pipe industry. We will miss him and his smile greatly. Matt Childs – President, American Concrete Pipe Association
So sorry for your loss!
To All The Wegner Family- We have all lost a very ‘special’ guy. Gary was a great friend and classmate and we will miss him so much. He has traveled so much in his lifetime but New Hampton was always foremost in his mind with all the good things he has done for this community. We keep you all in our prayers. Duane & Pat Lynch
To the Wegner family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Gary was very special, always had a smile and a hug! He will be greatly missed. So sorry for your loss.
My deepest sympathy to the Wegner family, We sure had a lot of great times together, and i will cherish those memories. You were a great man, and i always looked up to you, We brought the best out of each other on the lanes, and i can always count on you in the clutch. You were a competitor, I will miss you, and your smile, and all the fun that we had. Rest in peace, my friend.
Teleflora’s Blushing Lilies was purchased for the family of Gary Wegner.
Vicki Cartwright lit a candle in memory of Gary Wegner
Bill And Joanne Rausch lit a candle in memory of Gary Wegner
Thoughts and Prayers to the Wegner Family. We are so sorry to hear of his passing but he was such a great father, husband and grandfather. He will always be remembered for his smile and always taking time to talk to you. Sending love to you all! Rick and Donna Schmudlach
I always enjoyed calling on Gary at the welding shop when I was a salesman for Campbell Supply in Iowa Falls. I also remember the great time we had at the Christmas party he had. Condolences to his family. Larry Swart
Gary always had that great smile and a story to go along with it.Will miss him.He’s probably knocking some pins down in heaven.Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.John and Betty Foreman.
Our deepest sympathy to the Wegner families. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Larry and Phyllis Brown
Joyful Memory was purchased for the family of Gary Wegner.
Our thoughts and Prayers go out to the Wegner family. Gary was a great guy. I hope your great memories and all the good times you shared with him help get you through this difficult time.
Tony And Joan Rausch lit a candle in memory of Gary Wegner
Beautiful in Blue was purchased for the family of Gary Wegner.
To Gary’s Family – my getting to know Gary came from his association with our office. It’s been a while since I talked with Gary -but he was such a kind and gentle person. He had such passion for life and had such a great smile..always thinking of others. He will be missed but his memories will live on in your hearts. Cherish those memories – they become precious as the years pass. Prayers be with you during this difficult time! Donna Torkelson(Corcoran & Associates Inc.)
Marty And Deb Larsen lit a candle in memory of Gary Wegner
To Debbie, Janet, Linda, Jamie and Nick………wanted to pass on my sympathies to all! Gary was truly one of a kind……..from being a community leader to being a great husband, dad and friend! He always had that huge smile on his face and always had a great story to tell!! May God hold you all extra close and bless you all with great memories of Gary! God Bless!!! Dick Galligan
With deepest sympathy, sending thoughts and prayers to the Wegner family. I had the privilege to meet Gary nearly 18 years ago when beginning my career with the National Precast Concrete Association (NPCA). He was much loved and respected in the industry and will be sorely missed. Brenda C. Ibitz, VP Development, NPCA
Debbie Jim and I were so very sad to hear about Gary’s passing. we know he was a special person to make your eyes light up when you were talking about your fishing trips etc. Gary fought a very brave and courageous battle. May God hold you in his hand during this’ difficult time. You will always be in our prayers. Jim and Nance Wagner
My heartfelt sympathy to the entire Wegner family. Gary was such a pleasure to be around. His smile would touch your heart. He will be missed.
To the Wegner family, the Mettner family is very sorry for your loss. We will keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers.
We are sending our deepest sympathy to all the Wegner family. We were just praying for Gary in church on Friday and saddened to hear of his passing. Gary had such a warm personality and huge smile. Many people were blessed to have him as a friend. We had some fun times skiing with him years ago. He left you with many great memories. Kathy and George Bouska
To the Wegner Family Our deepest Sympathy to all the Family, Don and Lois Vorwald
Our thoughts and prayers as we are thinking of the entire Wegner family. He always had that great smile and kind words. Cling to his memories in the sad days ahead. David and Jeanne Roder
The first friends I made when I came to New Hampton in 1964 were the Wegner kids. All of them as friendly and nice as you could want. When Bob and I made our home there, Gary and I served together on many public boards and worked toward common goals. He truly loved his community and there is evidence of that all over town. What a loss for us.
Janet, Linda,Jamie, Nick and the entire Wegner Family, You have our deepest sympathies. Gary was such a fun guy to be around, his smile was infectious. He will truely be missed by many. Keep your memories of him close to you, in these tough days ahead. Thinking of you all, sincerely, Leo and Bev Dowd
Fran Rowland lit a candle in memory of Gary Wegner
Steve & Francie Crawford lit a candle in memory of Gary Wegner
Our deepest sympathy to all the Wegner family Jack and Betty Gorman.
Condolences to the entire family.
Wegner family – you are in our thoughts and prayers. We are sorry for your loss. Gary always had a smile to share and will be missed by many. Our sympathy to you. Russ & Angie Laures
Our deepest sympathy to your faimly during this time. We are so sorry for your loss!! Thoughts and prayers are with you are you in the days ahead!
Wegner Family, So sorry to hear about your loss. Gary was one of the first people we got to know when we moved to town through the tractor pull. He had the most contagious smile. He will be greatly missed. Our deepest condolences from Karen and Olin Amundson.
Gary will certainly be missed by many. Got to know him at Fort Dade in Florida . He put a lot of hard work into the park and loved his time there. RIP Gary you fought a tough battle. Chuck and Lois Tempus
The family of Gary is included in my thoughts and prayers.