Remembering Gary Lee Compston: A Tribute to a Beloved North Iowa Resident
Gary Lee Compston, a cherished member of the North Iowa community, passed away on January 09, 2025, at Mercy One Medical Center North Iowa. He was 78 years old.
Visitation for Gary will be held from 4:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. on Friday, January 17, 2025, at Schott Funeral Home, located at 505 N Clark St, Forest City, Iowa 50436. The visitation will continue from 10:00 A.M. until the service time at Forest City United Methodist Church, 305 S Clark St, Forest City, IA 50436, on Saturday.
The funeral service in honor of Gary will take place at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, January 18, 2024, at Forest City United Methodist Church, with Rachel Eggum Cinader officiating. Following the service, burial will be held at Oakland Cemetery in Forest City, Iowa, with Military Honors performed by the Forest City American Legion Post #121.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Forest City United Methodist Church or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Gary Lee Compston was born on May 16, 1946, in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, to parents Garland “Jack” and Anna Laura (Clark) Compston. After several relocations, the family settled in Forest City, Iowa, in 1954. Gary’s upbringing involved his parents’ involvement in dog breeding and theater businesses.
Early Life and Military Service
Gary graduated from Forest City High School in 1965 and later attended Waldorf College. In 1967, he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving on the USS Wainwright in the boiler room until his honorable discharge in 1971.
Professional Life and Retirement
In 1973, Gary married Catherine Hill and together they owned and managed various theater businesses, with Gary eventually retiring in 2011. During retirement, he worked as a driver for Lichtsinn RV, indulged in his passion for college football, and enjoyed activities like fishing, hunting, bowling, and playing Mexican train dominoes.
Family and Community Involvement
Family was paramount to Gary, and he took pride in teaching his grandchildren the joys of fishing and hunting. He was actively involved in the community, being a member of the Camera Club, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and The First United Methodist Church of Forest City.
Gary is survived by his wife, Cathy Compston; daughter, Catina Kinney; grandchildren Brendon and Abigail Kinney; great-grandchildren Emric and Emersyn Kinney; as well as other family members and close friends.
Gary Lee Compston will be dearly missed by all who knew him, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and community spirit.
