Gary L. Mains

Gary L. Mains entered the world on Nov. 17, 1937, the eldest child of J.W. (Weldon) and Dorothy Mains. He started his working days at the early age of 11, carrying bricks and mixing mortar doing home repair with his father. During sheep shearing season they would shear in southwest Iowa, Georgia, Alabama and the Dakotas. As a teenager he would hunt to help put food on the table.

In 1960 he was drafted by the Army and was honorably discharged in 1962. Then he started working for Cunningham & Reis Bridge Construction, followed by United Contractors as a carpenter and crane operator. Later, he was an underground cable locator for Huxley Communications. Whatever he did, he always did his best.

On Nov. 26, 1960, Gary married Helen Brand at the Methodist Church in Gravity.

Gary started trapshooting and taught Helen how to shoot. They enjoyed going to the gun clubs and shot in Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, Illinois and Arizona. They enjoyed doing many things together after retiring and moving to Missouri. He had a large garden. He was always helping others. Sometimes giving advice (wanted or not) on any subject.

Gary left this world with his wife by his side, peacefully, Monday, Sept. 25, 2023, at the Westview Care Center in Leon.

He was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers: Jerry, Gail, Gene, James and Grover; three brothers-in-law: Ray Alcorn, J.L. Andrus and Jack Giley.

He is survived by his wife Helen Mains of Eagleville, Missouri; siblings: Glenna Alcorn of Milliken, Colorado, Judy Andrus of Republic, Missouri, Joyce Giley of Conway, Jay (April) Mains of Sharpsburg and Jan (Kelly McDaniel) Davidson of Afton; sisters-in-law: Connie Mains of Sharpsburg, Imogene Mains of Creston and Mary Mains of Clearfield; nieces, nephews and friends.

Gary’s wishes were to be cremated and no services are planned at this time.

Armstrong Funeral Home in Mount Ayr assisted the family with cremation service.