SPIRIT LAKE — Gary Neil Eakin, 88, of Spirit Lake, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at his farm in Spirit Lake.
Gary was born June 13, 1938, in Sibley, Iowa, the son of Neil and Mildred Eakin. He graduated from Sibley High School in 1956 and went on to study at Bethel Seminary before continuing his education at Iowa State University, where he earned degrees in agronomy and education.
His professional life reflected both his love of learning and his connection to the land. Gary taught math and science in Iowa public secondary schools for 22 years. After his parents purchased a farm in Spirit Lake in 1967, he also helped his father farm, building a life tied closely to agriculture, education and the outdoors.
Gary was known for an adventurous spirit. He enjoyed riding his BMW motorcycle across the country with friends and, later in life, took a solo bicycle trip from Spirit Lake to Mille Lacs Lake. He loved walking through the countryside, gardening, fishing, spending time on the farm and wintering in Alamo, Texas.
Faith was also an important part of Gary’s life. He grew up attending First Baptist Church in Sibley and later became part of Crosswinds Church in Spirit Lake. He enjoyed adult Bible study and shared music with others by playing saxophone at church and at his Texas RV park.
Gary also enjoyed playing pool with friends in Spirit Lake and Texas, competing in tournaments and winning competitions over the years.
In his later years, Gary married Karen, whom his obituary describes as a wonderful Christian wife. It was the first marriage for both of them.
He is survived by his wife, Karen; his niece, Robin Elser and her husband, Greg; great-nieces Coral and Rachel Elser; and great-nephew Jacob Elser. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Sandra.
A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Crosswinds Church, 2805 Erie Avenue, Spirit Lake. Visitation will be held from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM Saturday at the church before the service. Interment will follow at Lakeview Cemetery in Spirit Lake.
Turner Jenness Funeral Home is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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