Gary Boltman, 75 of Le Mars, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at his home.

His family will be having private services. Expressions of sympathy may be expressed to the family through www.rexwinkelfh.com.

Gary Lyle Boltman was born on November 26, 1950 in St. Paul, Minnesota to Cliff and Joyce (Paulson) Boltman. He was raised and attended school in St. Paul, graduating from high school in 1969.

Gary enlisted in the United States Navy in August of 1969. He was stationed in San Diego, California but spent most of his time at sea. He was also stationed in Guam for a while and even assisted in the retrieval of an Apollo Spacecraft. Gary was honorably discharged in March of 1977.

Gary stayed in San Diego and primarily worked as a truck driver. In 1997 he moved to Le Mars and began working for Schuster Trucking. He then began driving for Wells Blue Bunny and retired from Wells in 2017.

Gary was united in marriage to Bonnie (Kroepel) Schomaker on February 1, 2010. Gary enjoyed playing slot machines and he took Bonnie to Vegas several times over the years. As they retired, they continued to frequent more local casinos.

Gary enjoyed science fiction and loved watching Star Wars. He liked maintaining and detailing his car, as he always drove a Dodge Challenger. Gary enjoyed spending time with his family, always up for a family gathering.

He loved animals and had many beloved cats over the years. He leaves behind four beloved feline friends: Rocky, Charlie, Steuie, and Nova.

Gary is survived by his wife, Bonnie; two children: Shawn (Al) Pearson of Coon Rapids, MN and Mandy (Josh) Bussell of El Cajon, CA; three grandchildren: Weston, Savannah, and Cheyenne Pearson; siblings: Peggy (Jim) Durdin and Dayle (Al) Hochsprung; sisters in law: Debbie McClelland, Pam (Kirk) Johnson, and Kris (Brett) Dreckman; long-time friend from the Navy, Paul Butler; nieces, nephews, and other extended relatives.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Tammie Boltman; and sister, Sue Boltman.