Gary LeMaster
LEMASTER, PARROT, HUSEMAN, ROGERS
Posted By: Megan Ciha (email)
Date: 11/19/2024 at 16:53:58
Gary LeMaster
September 1, 1948 – November 10, 2024Gary LeMaster, beloved father, educator, artist, and lifelong learner, passed away peacefully surrounded by his children on November 10, 2024, at the age of 76. Born in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, on September 1, 1948, Gary was the son of Maurice and Doris LeMaster.
Gary's passion for education began early, and he pursued it with dedication throughout his life. After graduating from Mt. Pleasant High School, Gary attended the University of Northern Iowa and graduated in 1970 with a B.A. in Spanish Education, followed by a Master of Arts in Spanish and Portuguese in 1971. His love of language was deepened by a transformative summer spent studying Spanish in Bogotá, Colombia, in 1970. Throughout his career, Gary served as an instructor at Kirkwood Community College and the University of Iowa, where he inspired students with his expertise and enthusiasm for the Spanish language and culture.
However, education was only one of Gary's many passions. His love for art—specifically the delicate craft of egg engraving—became a defining feature of his life. Gary was known for his intricate egg carvings, and he went on to create a community of fellow artists through his egg-carving newsletter. He spent countless hours teaching others this unique craft, sharing his techniques and his joy for the art form with anyone who showed interest.
An Eagle Scout and a passionate Scout leader, Gary was deeply committed to the values of scouting. He also earned a black belt in taekwondo, a testament to his disciplined nature and desire for continuous growth. A lifelong reader, Gary had an insatiable curiosity, particularly for history, which he enjoyed exploring through books and conversation. He had a special affinity for video games, which he loved sharing with his family, finding both relaxation and joy in the virtual worlds they provided.
Gary's life was marked by his zest for knowledge, his nurturing spirit, and his many creative talents. Whether it was teaching a class, carving an egg, or simply sharing a conversation, Gary's impact on those around him was profound. He leaves behind a legacy of intellectual curiosity, artistic achievement, and deep familial love that will continue to inspire all who knew him. His humor, morality, and continual growth through knowledge will live on in all the people close to him- as well as his love for the Iowa Hawkeyes.
Gary is survived by his former spouse, Genevieve LeMaster; his five children: Derek Parrot, Erin (Justin Rogers) LeMaster, Collin (Jilian) LeMaster, McKenzie (Kellen) Huseman, Ian (Brittany) LeMaster, as well as 5 grandchildren- Ethan, Rory, Enzo, Remy, and Teagan. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, and cousins worldwide. He was preceded in death by his parents, Maurice and Doris LeMaster, and son-in-law, Justin Rogers.
An open house to visit with family will be held on Wednesday, November 20th, 2024 at Gay and Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City from 5:00-7:00 pm.
A special thanks to Care Initiatives Hospice and Lantern Park Care Facility for helping Gary and his family navigate the final chapter of his story.
Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation
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