Gerrit (Garry) John Engeltjes, 90, passed away peacefully at home on October 10, 2026, following a lengthy battle with cancer with his loving wife by his side. He will be remembered not for ceremony or recognition, but by the life he lived, the principles he stood for, and the people whose lives he touched along the way.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at Memorial Services of Iowa (4208 N. Ankeny Blvd). A memorial service will follow at 3:00 p.m., also at the funeral home. The memorial service will be livestreamed at the following link: https://vimeo.com/event/6266981

A man of grit, conviction, and quiet determination, Garry believed in doing what was right, taking responsibility, and standing up for those who needed someone in their corner. He was never one to back down from what he believed was just, even if it meant standing alone. Throughout his life, he advocated for the rights of working men and stood up for the everyday person, particularly those who were hurting or in need of a voice. He believed in accountability, hard work, and the responsibility of providing for and protecting his family. His commitment to working people continued into retirement. He was a longtime member and officer of the Iowa Association of Teamster Retirees.

His career in transportation began at a young age and remained a defining part of his life for decades. A dedicated and conscientious professional, he drove more than one million miles without an accident—a remarkable testament to his skill, discipline, and commitment to doing his job well. His work was more than a livelihood; it reflected his sense of duty, his strong work ethic, and his determination to provide for those he loved.

Those who knew him also knew another side of his personality: a mischievous wit, an impish sense of humor, and a gift for disarming others with a well-timed remark. He was a man who could bring a smile to a difficult moment and whose humor was an unmistakable part of who he was.

Garry also had a lifelong appreciation for all things mechanical, owning several classic cars over the years and was often found in his outbuilding diagnosing problems and devising creative solutions. He restored his 1951 John Deere B tractor—the same one he spent countless hours working in the fields. He later displayed it at events and parades as a member of the Central Iowa Tractor Club.

Above all, family mattered. On July 20, 1959, Garry married the love of his life, Judy Jacobs. Together they built a family that remained at the heart of his life. His love was expressed through action—showing up, shouldering responsibility, working hard, and standing firm when it mattered most. The lessons he leaves behind are woven into the lives of his children and grandchildren: the importance of doing what is right, keeping your word, working hard, and caring for others.

Garry is survived by his beloved wife, Judy (Jacobs) Engeltjes; his children, Stephanie (Greg) Goodman and Heather (Bryan) Knight; his grandchildren, Anna (Donny) Bedard, Joe (Celia) Goodman, and Travis (Amber) Knight; and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by six siblings, Gertrude Faber, Don Engeltjes, Bill Engeltjes, Connie Pennings, Larry (Sue) Engeltjes, and Dave Engeltjes, along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Gertrude (VerDoorn) Engeltjes; and his newborn daughter, Melanie.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Every Step Hospice team, especially Stacy and Rachel, for the care, compassion, and support they provided throughout his final journey.

His life reminds us that a legacy is not measured by accolades or recognition, but by the convictions we hold, the responsibilities we honor, the people we protect, and the love we leave behind. He leaves a family shaped by the years they shared, the lessons they learned, and the memories they will carry forward.

Garry trusted Christ as his personal savior at a young age. He leaves us with the example of a quiet abiding faith which he exemplified every day. Ephesians 2:8-9 “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God- Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity in memory of Garry.