Gene Garrett

     Eugene Donald Garrett was born on March 1,1953, to Donald and Patricia (McCoid) Garrett in Denison, Iowa. Gene grew up in Paradise Township, Dow City, Iowa. He attended school in Arion until 8th grade and then graduated from the Dow City/Arion School in 1971. Gene married the love of his life, Cathy Weiss on March 4,1973, at the Community of Christ Church in Dow City. They were blessed with three children: Kelly, Molly and Jody.

     Gene was a devoted cattleman. He was the founder of Garrett Land and Cattle. He loved farming and was often found at the sale barn, where his expertise and kindness touched the lives of many. His dedication to agriculture and his passion for nurturing the land and livestock were traits that defined him throughout his life. Gene enjoyed watching westerns and spending time with family. He was a man of deep compassion and integrity. He had a unique ability to connect with others, offering support and guidance to those who sought it. He will be remembered for his generosity and his love for the rural way of life.

     Gene died at his home on September 8, 2025, at the age of 72 years, six months and seven days.

     Gene was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Colin Garrett; and brother-in-law, Walt Wright. He is survived by his wife Cathy Garrett; children, Kelly Garrett and his wife Amber of Arion, Molly and her husband Cory Reisz of Denison and Jody and her husband Justin Gatewood of Ames, Iowa; grandchildren, Connor (Erin) Garrett, Cael Garrett (Gesell Cabrera), Emma Reisz (Gunner Schmitz), Owen Reisz, Eryn Reisz, Parker Gatewood and Paige Gatewood; great-grandson, Arlo Garrett; siblings, Kathleen Wright, Kevin (Deb) Garrett and Connie Garrett; special family friend, Kaitlin Wille; and many other relatives and friends.

IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, DONATIONS MAY BE MADE TO THE FAMILY AND THEY WILL DISTRIBUTE TO THE DOW CITY/ARION FIRE DEPARTMENT, THE DOW CITY ENDOWMENT FOUNDATION AND THE DOW CITY COMMUNITY OF CHRIST CHURCH.