Gary Schug

Gary Verdell Schug, 78, of Ankeny, Iowa -- known to friends and family simply as “Schug” – was called home to his Lord and Savior on August 26, 2025 at the VA Hospital in Des Moines after a brief battle with cancer. He leaves behind a life defined by faith, service and unwavering love for his family. Gary was born on July 11, 1947 in Lake City, Iowa, into a military family and moved frequently throughout his childhood. This experience shaped his adaptability, resilience and strong sense of duty. He graduated from San Francisco High School in California and later graduated from Lincoln Technical Institute in Des Moines, Iowa. He became a certified auto service technician and retired from Charles Gabus Ford after 37 years of service.

He honorably served his country as a member of the U.S. Army Special Forces during the Vietnam War. In recognition of his service, he will be honored with full military rites at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Adel at a later date. Family will greet friends from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 3900 Ashworth Road, West Des Moines, Iowa on Friday, August 29, 2025, followed by a funeral service to celebrate his life at 11:00 a.m.

Gary married the love of his life, Linda (Dicks), on July 20, 1968. Together they built a home in Ankeny, Iowa where they raised their two sons, Keith and Ryan. A devoted member of Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church for 53 years; he served as an elder and usher, and found deep meaning and fulfillment in his faith and the fellowship of the church community. His heart for service extended into the community through volunteering at Hope Ministries and at the YMCA Housing Program, where he offered compassion, encouragement and practical help to those in need.

One of Gary’s greatest joys was fishing, specifically at Whaley’s Resort in Minnesota, where he spent countless peaceful hours casting a line and making cherished memories. Bass fishing was more than a pastime for Gary, it was his passion and refuge.

Gary was frequently seen with a toothpick tucked between his lips, a small but distinctive habit that became part of his signature look. Alongside it, he wore an American flag lapel pin with a cross, a subtle yet proud symbol of his love for God and country. Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Linda; their two sons, Keith of Winter Haven, Fla. and Ryan (Erin) of Elkhart, Iowa; Erin’s three sons, Evan, Ethan and Easton, whom he cherished as his step-grandchildren; his brothers, Bernard of Decatur, Ala. and John of Richland, Wash.; sister, Lori Marrow of Jarrell, Texas; along with many dear friends, neighbors and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Verdell and June Schug.

Memorial contributions may be mailed directly to Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 3900 Ashworth Road, West Des Moines, Iowa, 50265. Memorials will later be allocated to both Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church and Hope Ministries.

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