Gary E. Taylor

Gary E. Taylor, 69, of Lehigh, Iowa, passed away at his home on Wednesday, April 14, 2010, surrounded by his family.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m., Monday, April 19, 2010, at Carson - Stapp Funeral Home in Dayton. Rev. Dennis Shepherd will officiate. Flag presentation will be conducted by the Donald Harper Post #5720 V.F.W. Cremation will follow the service and private burial will be at West Lawn Cemetery in Lehigh at a later date. Visitation will be Sunday, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., at Carson - Stapp Funeral Home.

Gary Edward Taylor was born on May 19, 1940, in rural Webster County, Iowa, the son of Edward and Edna (Sturdevant) Taylor. He graduated with the Lehigh High School class of 1958. In July of 1964, Gary was drafted into the United States Army. He served his country during Viet Nam and was honorably discharged in July of 1966. Gary worked at Iowa Beef in Fort Dodge, Lehigh Sewer Pipe & Tile, and later for the Department of Transportation in road maintenance until retiring. On April 12, 2010, Gary married his longtime companion, Linda Mumper.

Gary was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and many other outdoor activities. He enjoyed the company of his beloved dog, Ben.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Taylor of Lehigh, Iowa; daughter, Toni Swan of Gowanda, New York; four grandchildren, including Justin Skoglund (Maureen Crampton) who was raised by Gary; as well as many other friends and relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents; two daughters, Valerie (Taylor) Mortenson, and Gerri Taylor; and one sister, Cheryl Woodle.

Memorials may be left to the discretion of the family.