Curtain Call for a Master of the Stage: In Memoriam of Gary Wesley Ewing
On February 1, 2024, the lights dimmed on a remarkable life as Gary Ewing, the creative force behind countless theater and film productions and documentaries, took his final bow.
Born on August 17, 1953 in parts unknown, Gary was destined for the spotlight from a young age. The son of Charles and Carole (Pinneke) Ewing, he attended Mason City High School before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps to serve his country in 1970. Following his military service Gary enrolled at North Iowa Area Community College where his love for theater was born.
As the founder of Dress Casual Cafe and Silverback Productions, Gary transformed dreams into reality. His productions were not just performances; they were experiences that captivated audiences. Under his visionary leadership, the Mason City Community Theater was not just a venue but a sanctuary where stories unfolded like masterpieces.
Gary had a knack for spotting talent and nurturing it to brilliance. As the founder of Stebens Children’s Theater, his infectious enthusiasm and love for the craft inspired many. Whether on stage, behind the scenes, or at an “Office Meeting,” he had an uncanny ability to turn a motley crew into a tightly-knit family, all working towards the common goal of creating unforgettable moments in the spotlight.
Throughout Gary’s life, setbacks were just unexpected plot twists, and every challenge was an opportunity for a show-stopping spectacle. He was the proud father of Sky (Eric), Kathryn, and Brittany, and grandfather to Hadley Jo, Colten, and Beau. He had a heart for animals and had many beloved dogs over the years, but held a special place for Buster the Boxer.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mason City Community Theater or Stebens Children’s Theater, continuing Gary’s legacy of supporting the arts and nurturing emerging talent, or to the Humane Society of North Iowa to help support area animals in need.
A grand finale celebration of Gary’s life will take place at 2pm, Saturday February 10, 2024 at the Mason City Community Theater, 215 S. Delaware Ave.Mason City. Attendees are encouraged, quite fittingly, to “Dress Casual.” Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City.
Visitation will be held from 12:00 pm until 2:00 pm prior to Gary’s service.
As the curtain falls on Gary’s earthly performance, his spirit will forever live on in the theaters he built, the stories he told, and the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to be part of his production.
He is survived by his children, Sky (Taryn Horn) Ewing, Kayde (Jared) Sberal, and Brittany (Will) Davis; grandchildren, Hadley Jo, Colten, and Beau; siblings, Martha “Molly” Walgren, Annette Marshall, Kathy (Craig) Wentworth, Kim (West Lane) Pinneke, and Micky Pinneke; former wife, Jan Kostka; Great-Aunt Matilda and her husband, aka Michelle and Ryan; his nieces and nephews; and his many friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Kenton Ewing and Billy Figgins.
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