John Gehling, 91, of Atlantic, died Monday, October 7, 2019, at West Bridge Care and Rehabilitation in Winterset.
John Henry Gehling was born on January 7, 1928, in Carroll, Iowa, the son of Theodore and Catherine (Hoffman) Gehling. As a child he enjoyed ice and roller skating. Little did he know that one day at the skate rink he would meet his future wife, Marjorie May Dalhoff. The couple was united in marriage on October 19, 1949, in Halbur, Iowa, and would have celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary this year. Following their marriage, they farmed near Carroll and Lake City, until John was drafted into the United States Army in May of 1954. John and Marjorie moved to Colorado Springs, CO, where he was stationed. After returning from the service they settled near Carroll, and were blessed to adopt 5 children, Patrick, Peggy, Tim, Philip and Pam. In the mid 1970’s, they moved to a farm five miles south of Adair. John loved what life had to offer him and his family on the farm; he was always proud to have his own farming operation. He not only loved working the land, but working with his livestock. In March of 1987, John and Marjorie moved to Atlantic.
He was a member of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Atlantic, where he was active in the Knights of Columbus and also helped maintain the cemetery. John was also a member of the Anita American Legion Post #210 for 46 years.
John raised a large garden not only on the farm but also after moving to town. His love of the outdoors didn’t stop with agriculture, he also enjoyed fishing and hunting. He was a true tinkerer; he could fix anything even if that meant designing and building his own part to fix it. A few of his projects were likely found at the many local auctions he attended. Never one to dance, he and Marjorie did listen to polka music and old-time country. Time with family and friends was something he looked forward too; whether it be a game of cards (pitch being his favorite) or attending family reunions on both sides. John was always happy and thankful for the many blessings he was given!
John is survived by his wife, Marjorie of Winterset, IA; children, Patrick Gehling of Denison, IA, Peggy (Tony Keck) Rater of Lenexa, KS, Tim (Leslie) Gehling of Runnells, IA, Phillip Gehling of Atlantic, and Pam (Jerry) Ticknor of Winterset, IA; grandchildren, Erika Rater, Corey Gehling, Bryce Gehling, Natalie Ticknor, Hailey Gehling, Kyle Gehling, and Micheal Gehling; sister, Freda Barron of Niles, MI; sisters-in-law, Irma and Donna Gehling; and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Catherine Gehling; siblings, Marie (Rod) Eschen, Lucille (Jim) Jackley, Anna (Herman) Rath, Frank (Norma Jean) Gehling, Leonard Gehling, Vincent Gehling, Leo Gehling, and Helen Gray.
Visitation with the family present will be held from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Friday, October 11, 2019, at Roland Funeral Service in Atlantic.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 12, 2019, at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Atlantic. Burial, with military honors by the Anita American Legion Post #210, will be held in the Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Cemetery.
Roland Funeral Service is caring for John’s family and his arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com.
IN LOVING MEMORY OF
John Gehling
BORN
January 7, 1928 - Carroll, Iowa
ENTERED INTO REST
October 7, 2019 - Winterset, Iowa
At the age of
91 years and 9 months
MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL
11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 12, 2019
SS Peter & Paul Catholic Church - Atlantic, Iowa
CELEBRANT
Father Trevor Chicoine
ORGANIST
Elsa Casey
CANTOR
Diedre Casey
MUSICAL SELECTIONS
Processional - “How Great Thou Art” #494
Offertory - “Let There Be Peace on Earth #731
Communion - “Make Me a Channel of your Peace” #726
Recessional - “Amazing Grace” #612
PALLBEARERS
Grandchildren, Family and Friends
INTERMENT
SS Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery - Atlantic, Iowa
MILITARY HONORS
American Legion Post #210 - Anita, Iowa
John’s family invites everyone to join them for lunch at the
Parish Center following services at the cemetery.